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25 Best Day Trips from Salt Lake City, Utah

Last Updated By VI on April 10, 2024 in Things to Do in Utah & Places to Visit , Map

Ogden, Utah

Antelope island state park.

• Complete List & Map

In town, visitors can explore northern Utah's largest collection of factory outlet stores or stroll along its charming Main Street, which showcases many preserved 19th-century buildings from the city's mining town era.

Family-friendly attractions include the interactive Treehouse Museum and the unique Eccles Dinosaur Park and Museum, which showcases a paleontology lab and life-sized dinosaur statues.

A visitor center is also offered, along with a marina, public swimming beaches, and RV and primitive campgrounds.

Each year, the lake region hosts the annual Raspberry Days festival, celebrating the fruit with raspberry recipe cookoffs, rodeos, parades, and a Miss Berry Princess contest.

Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge

2155 W Forest St, Brigham City, UT 84302, Phone: 435-723-5887

The Bonneville Salt Flats

Five major speed events take place at the flats throughout the year, including the events of Bonneville Speed Week in August.

The Neil Simon Festival also celebrates the works of the great comedic playwright, presenting three plays of his each July and August.

More ideas: South Jordan, Utah

Crystal Hot Springs

8215 UT-38, Honeyville, UT 84314, Phone: 435-339-0038

After hitting the slopes, resort guests can dine at the delicious Needles Lodge, which offers stunning panoramic views. Hot-air balloons are offered throughout the summer months, showcasing the region's beautiful mountain scenery.

Ensign Peak

At the top of the peak, a small monument honors the history of the LDS Church and its leaders.

Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley Rd, Green River, UT 84525, Phone: 435-275-4584

The Heber Valley Railroad

450 S 6th W, Heber City, UT 84032, Phone: 435-654-5601

Hidden Falls

It is a popular hike site throughout the year, showcasing spectacular ice-covered cliffs during the winter months.

Annual special events include the Summerfest Arts Faire and the Cache Valley Cruise-In, the largest automotive festival in Utah.

In the summer, visitors can hit the links at the resort's 18-hole championship golf course, take guided historic property tours, snorkel and scuba dive within the unique Homestead Crater natural area, or enjoy Friday Night Campfire and Saturday evening concert series events.

Mount Timpanogos

Visitors can enjoy amazing opportunities for hiking and rock climbing year-round or explore the stunning Timpanogos Cave National Monument, which preserves a series of decorated caves along the mountain's northern end. Guided ranger tours of the caves are offered daily throughout the summer months.

The Natural History Museum of Utah

More ideas: Clearfield, Utah

More ideas: Ski Resorts Near Salt Lake City

Sundance Mountain Resort

The Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve

S 3200 W, Layton, UT 84041, Phone: 801-531-0999

Utah Olympic Park

More ideas: Things to Do in Heber City

The city also serves as a gateway to nearby Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, which attracts more than two million annual visitors for excellent hiking, biking, and white water rafting opportunities.

• 1. Park City
• 2. Ogden, Utah
• 3. Antelope Island State Park
• 4. Bear Lake
• 5. Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge
• 6. The Bonneville Salt Flats
• 7. Cedar City
• 8. Cove Fort
• 9. Crystal Hot Springs
• 11. Ensign Peak
• 12. Goblin Valley State Park
• 13. The Heber Valley Railroad
• 14. Hidden Falls
• 17. Mount Timpanogos
• 18. The Natural History Museum of Utah
• 20. Sundance Mountain Resort
• 21. The Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve
• 22. Utah Olympic Park

More Utah Getaways:

Resources: Visit Utah , Utah.gov , Discover Moab , Visit Salt Lake , Visit Park City , Utah National Parks , Utah State Parks

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Salt Lake City   Travel Guide

24 Best Things To Do in Salt Lake City

Updated Feb. 2, 2023

Plan on spending a good chunk of your time exploring Temple Square , the official headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This walled neighborhood at the heart of Salt Lake City hosts impressive religious buildings – such as

• All Things To Do

Temple Square Temple Square free

Temple Square's multi-block, 35-acre plaza is home to nearly 20 attractions related to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It's anchored by the towering Salt Lake Temple  – where, among other things, weekly meetings of the church's governing bodies are held – and other fascinating buildings like the expansive Tabernacle and the Gothic Revival-style Assembly Hall, which offer insight into the history and development of the church. You should also stop by the Family History Library , the largest genealogy library in the world. Once you've toured the sites, stroll through the square's scenic gardens and past the gurgling fountains.

Recent travelers recommend taking a free, guided tour of the square and also mention that you don't have to be particularly religious to find it of interest. Travelers note that while the area is nice to walk around, the temple is currently undergoing renovation. The building and its surroundings are closed to the public and much of the area is obscured with fences and scaffolding.

Great Salt Lake Great Salt Lake

Clocking in at roughly 35 miles wide and 75 miles long, the Great Salt Lake is the largest natural saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. The lake's name comes from the nature of the water: The evaporation process (the only exit available for the lake's water) leaves behind salty mineral deposits. Salt Lake City's visitors and residents enjoy the area's many hiking trails, ample picnic spots, and swimming, boating and fishing opportunities.

Great Salt Lake Park is one access point that's close to the city: just 20 miles west. Here, travelers will find a marina, a small beach trail and facilities like showers, concessions and restrooms. Another popular access point is Antelope Island, a state park located northwest of the city. While you'll be able to access the same scenery as Great Salt Lake Park, Antelope Island also features plenty of wildlife to spot (including bison and antelope). Plus, you'll find the Fielding Garr Ranch House, an 1800s house on its original foundation. You can only reach the island by driving around the lake's southeast shore, following Interstate 15 to exit 332. The drive is about 60 miles one-way.

Salt Lake Temple Salt Lake Temple free

The temple started an extensive renovation in December 2019 that includes making structural changes, improving its accessibility and adding more visitor facilities. As a result, it is currently closed. The temple is expected to reopen in 2024.

Situated on 10 acres in the square, this impressive six-spire structure is the universal icon of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While you are not allowed to enter the church itself, recent visitors said that the beautiful grounds are worth touring.

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FamilySearch Library FamilySearch Library free

Sitting in Temple Square , the FamilySearch Library houses millions of genealogical records profiling more than three billion deceased people, making it the largest library of its kind in the world. The library was founded in the late 19th century to assist members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints piece together their family history. Today, visitors are welcome to peruse the records – all meticulously preserved – and possibly track down a few ancestors of their own. Reviewers said this is a must-visit place for everyone, and especially genealogy buffs, as the staff are friendly and incredibly helpful and the resources are astounding.

The FamilySearch Library is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 or 8 p.m., depending on the day. Admission is free. The library recommends that you plan ahead, organizing family information that you already have and determining what you want to find. This will make it easier for the reference consultant to help you with your search. For more information, visit the FamilySearch Library website .

Red Butte Garden Red Butte Garden

Filled with meticulously landscaped plots, gurgling fountains and pleasant pathways, Red Butte Garden is a great place for budding botanists as well as visitors looking for quiet respite. Housed on the University of Utah campus in east Salt Lake City, the garden is divided into sections, each devoted to a specific type of plant or ecosystem.

Recent visitors said you should prepare to spend a good chunk of your day here, as there's plenty to see. Also, many recommended coming here during the warmer weather for a concert – just remember to bring your own picnic blanket. Red Butte Garden also hosts a variety of educational lectures and kid-friendly activities.

This is the Place Heritage Park This is the Place Heritage Park

History comes to life at This is the Place Heritage Park. Historical interpreters make the past real at more than 50 historic homes and other buildings. The site's This is the Place Monument marks the ends of the 1,300-mile Mormon trail, the path which Mormons took as they searched for a place to live in peace. There are many interactive experiences, including mining activities, pony rides, train rides, a Native American village and splash pad. There are multiple eateries as well.

Recent visitors particularly enjoyed the horseback riding experience and trail. Many also appreciated the chance to learn about both Utah and Mormon history. Travelers agreed that the large site is clean and well-maintained.

Utah State Capitol Utah State Capitol free

History, politics, and architecture buffs alike will enjoy touring the Utah State Capitol. Richard K. A. Kletting, a Salt Lake City area local, designed the 1916 building. In the mid-2000s, the landmark underwent a massive historic preservation effort that included restoration, repairs and seismic improvements.

Recent visitors admired the building's beauty, and enjoyed learning about state history. Many complimented the high quality exhibits, while those who took a docent-led tour (self-guided tours are also permitted), found the guides informative.

Ensign Peak Nature Park Ensign Peak Nature Park free

Ensign Peak Nature Park connects the Ensign Peak to the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.  It's also historically significant, as this is where Brigham Young's party stopped to survey Salt Lake City valley shortly after their arrival.

The hike is about one mile in each direction. It offers beautiful views of Salt Lake City and the nearby mountains. Visitors may spot local wildlife, as this area is a habitat for many animals and bird species. It is most enjoyable on a pleasant day with clear skies so you can appreciate the panoramic views at the summit.

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Brighton Resort Brighton Resort

Skiers and snowboarders are in their element at Brighton Resort. The mountain escape averages 500 inches of snowfall a year. It boasts 1,875 vertical feet, 66 trails, and four high speed quads. The resort offers snow sports school, night skiing, terrain parks, and even the opportunity to schuss the slopes on a ski bike. There are several dining and lodging options on-site.

Recent visitors applauded the resort for offering excellent experiences to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Many praised the classes, including those for children and novice skiers.

Liberty Park Liberty Park free

If you're looking to enjoy the great outdoors without leaving the city limits, head over to Liberty Park's 80 acres for any number of outdoorsy activities. There's a pond, bike paths, concession stands, rides, picnic areas, playgrounds and tennis and volleyball courts. Liberty Park is also home to an aviary and a swimming pool, both of which recent visitors recommend, as well just simply enjoying the peace and tranquility. They also recommend this park for families, as there are plenty of kid-friendly activities.

This park sits pretty in central Salt Lake. It's open every day from about 8 a.m. until 11 p.m., and admission is free (although a small fee is required to use some of the sporting facilities). Liberty also hosts several annual events throughout the year. For more information, check out the park's page on the Salt Lake City website .

Bonneville Salt Flats Bonneville Salt Flats free

The Bonneville Salt Flats may not be the first feature that comes to mind when thinking about Utah's ample natural beauty, but this 30,000-acre feature is worth a visit. From diverse viewing points the massive salt flats may look like desert covered by water, snow, or just like scenic mountains and hills in some places.

When ancient Lake Bonneville dried up, the salt flats were formed ( Great Salt Lake is another remnant of Lake Bonneville). Recent visitors were amazed by this natural wonder. Many noted how distinctive the flats were, and that you can see them from the road if you don’t have time for a longer stop. To conserve this geological feature, do not drive on the salt surface when it is wet – this is bad for the flats and vehicles alike. Be prepared for desert conditions: hot summers days and subzero winter temperatures. There are no facilities at the salt flats.

Park City Park City free

Park City was made for powder hounds. Sitting about 30 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, Park City is home to two major alpine ski spots that sprawl across acres upon acres of mountain terrain. Park City Mountain Resort welcomes skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels to traverse groomed trails, powder-filled bowls and terrain parks. And Deer Valley Resort caters exclusively to skiers (snowboarding is prohibited here), offering groomed and gladed runs along with several on-site restaurants. If you're just starting out, all resorts have expert instructors on hand to help you learn the slopes – whether it's through kids ski school, group instruction or private lessons.

Those who aren't avid skiers can still find things to do. Park City's numerous art galleries and museums will keep visitors entertained. Meanwhile, in the spring and summer, the ski resorts transform their runs into hiking and biking trails, and around town tourists can hit the links at Park City Golf Club or peruse the area's farmers markets.

Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort

The historic and cultural attractions are interesting, but skiing is one of the primary reasons many travelers visit Utah. And Salt Lake City is in close proximity to some of the state's best slopes, including those found at the Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort. Sprawling across 2,500 acres with an 11,000-foot peak, this ski resort features 140 runs that cater to both novice and advanced skiers. According to recent visitors, the slopes and views are worthwhile, though the facilities are not the most up to date.

Winter isn't the only time to enjoy Snowbird, though. The resort also features numerous warm-weather activities, including hiking, biking, fishing and even zip lining. The scenic aerial tram, which takes travelers up more than 2,400 feet to the top of Hidden Peak, is another highlight. Recent visitors said the views are awesome.

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Natural History Museum of Utah Natural History Museum of Utah

Head to the Natural History Museum to learn about the formation of the region's parks, mountain ranges, lakes, and basins, as well as exhibits on Utah's Native American tribes, anthropology, entomology, zoology, mineralogy, botany and much more. The Great Salt Lake exhibit is a must-see, with interactive exhibits on one of the region's most unique features. Kids will especially enjoy the Our Backyard exhibit, with plenty of hands-on activities to spark their curiosity. Recent visitors say the whole museum is family-friendly, with plenty to see and do.

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Wednesdays). Tickets are $19.95 for adults; $17.95 for young adults ages 13 to 24; and $15.95 for children ages 3 to 12. Reservations are recommended. The museum sits about 2 miles north of the Hogle Zoo and is best reached by car. For more information, check out the museum's official website .

Big Cottonwood Canyon Big Cottonwood Canyon free

About 20 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, Big Cottonwood Canyon, located in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, is home to two ski resorts and is also a popular hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking area. Even if you don't get out of your car, you can take in the views on a scenic 15-mile byway leading through the canyon, which takes about one hour to complete.

Recent visitors said it is a beautiful drive. In the mid-1800s, miners sought gold and silver in the canyon and visitors can see the remains of old mines here and there. What's more, Solitude and Brighton ski resorts both offer full-service, year-round facilities. Several hiking trails can be found at Brighton, leading to Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake Martha and Dog Lake.

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest free

The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest boasts 2.2 million acres of Mother Nature. Encompassing multiple wilderness districts across Utah and Wyoming, this national park offers a diverse array of landscapes – ranging from verdant fields to rocky mountainsides – as well as plenty of opportunities to hike, bike and camp.

Recent visitors raved about the beauty of the area and highly recommend bringing a camera and wearing sturdy walking shoes, as there are plenty of trails you'll want to explore (many vary in length and skill level, so check the website before you go to properly plan ahead). If you don't have time for a hike, consider a scenic drive instead. The 38-mile Mount Nebo Scenic Byway is popular for its stunning views of the Utah Valley and the mountains, especially during the fall when the leaves change.

Loveland Living Planet Aquarium Loveland Living Planet Aquarium

More than 4,000 animals live at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium. The sprawling site includes a 300,000-gallon shark habitat and tunnel that guests can walk through, as well as five different habitats that house animals from around the world. During your visit, you could see a variety of fish, turtles and stingrays as well as land animals like otters, lizards and leopards. There is also an on-site, three-level playground called Tuki's Island, plus an outdoor plaza full of play areas and interactive stations and an events stage.

Recent travelers enjoyed the diverse marine life. They found the exhibits informative, though several recent visitors balked at the admission prices. The aquarium can get crowded – the best bet for those looking for a quieter experience may be an afternoon visit.

Lagoon Amusement Park Lagoon Amusement Park

With roller coasters, a water park and a pioneer village, Lagoon Amusement Park aims to serve up family-friendly entertainment. The park is divided into five main areas, which includes everything from little kid-focused rides to extreme rides (that cost extra). There are also regular events and entertainment, some of which are themed around seasonal holidays, as well as live animals.

Recent visitors enjoyed the park, especially the roller coasters. Others felt it was expensive for the experience provided. Comparisons to other theme parks abounded, and there was criticism of the animals' living conditions.

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Hogle Zoo Hogle Zoo

Home to more than 800 animals, Hogle Zoo allows visitors to get up-close and personal with its residents. The zoo boasts the African Savanna exhibit, which is home to giraffes, zebras, ostrich and African lions. You'll also find a small animal building, Asian Highlands (where tigers and lynx tread) and the Primate Forest. Other on-site attractions include a carousel and splash pad. Visitors can also opt to feed the zoo's giraffes, rhinos and elephants (for additional fees and with advance reservation).

Most visitors agree that, although this isn't the best zoo in the country, a visit here is worth the price of entry. Recent visitors had mixed opinions about the size of the animal enclosures. However, many noted the staff is friendly and knowledgeable.

Salt Lake City Public Library Salt Lake City Public Library free

Whether you like to read or admire beautiful architecture, the stunning and contemporary Salt Lake City Public Library could be worth your while. Located in the downtown area and opened in 2003, the library has a huge collection and plenty of cozy corners ideal for hunkering down with a good story.

Recent visitors said the architecture alone is reason enough to visit, while others appreciated the friendly staff. There are also a variety of shops and cafes around Library Square (just outside the library), not to mention a rooftop garden overlooking the surrounding Wasatch Mountains for those who want to read outside.

Clark Planetarium Clark Planetarium free

Clark Planetarium features exhibits on Earth, near Earth and beyond. Here, you can step inside a giant tornado, see a 6-foot Rand McNally Earth Globe, check out one of the largest real moon rocks on public display, and visit the Lunar Lander exhibit to learn more about the forces of gravity, acceleration and inertia. Then, learn about weather in space, play on the "Gravity Floor" and learn about Io, one of Jupiter's moons.

Recent visitors were impressed with all the interactive and high-tech exhibits and highly recommend the planetarium. The Hansen Dome and Northrop Grumman IMAX theaters also offer shows on everything from moon landings to volcanos to cosmic light shows.

Tracy Aviary Tracy Aviary

There are more than 400 birds representing nearly 150 species at Tracy Aviary. Birds include hornbills, cranes, eagles, pelicans and macaws. The oldest aviary in the country, this tranquil wooded location is open year-round. Highlights include free-flight bird shows and interactive experiences such as feeding birds and shadowing zookeepers (for an additional fee).

Recent visitors delighted in the wide variety of birds found at the aviary, including those from across the Western Hemisphere. Many noted the beautiful setting and the cleanliness of the aviary itself. The excursion is also family-friendly, visitors said.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Utah (UT) » 15 Best Day Trips from Salt Lake City

15 Best Day Trips from Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, lies on the glistening shore of the Great Salt Lake and is encompassed by jagged, snow capped peaks.

Despite its major city status Salt Lake City retains a small town feel.

Community orientated and family friendly, Salt Lake City is a relaxed and welcoming city to explore.

Temple Square is the most iconic landmark in the city and houses the headquarters of the Mormon Church in the form of the Salt Lake Temple.

Once you have ticked of the major sites and landmarks, and taken the time to explore the sleepy suburbs too it’s time to venture a little further afield.

Here are 15 day trips from Salt Lake City that will inspire your wanderlust.

1. Bonneville Salt Flats

Best known as the venue for the Bonneville Speedway the Bonneville Salt Flats are one of Utah’s must visit natural landscapes.

This vast expanse of compressed natural salt spans over 30,000 acres.

The flats themselves were formed during the Pleistocene-era when Lake Bonneville’s waters entirely evaporated.

As deep as six feet in parts and just one inch in others this is a curious geographer’s dream come true.

Sunrise and sunset at the Bonneville Salt Flats are the most photogenic although there is something quite daunting about watching a seasonal storm roll on in across the plains.

The small city of Midway is quite possibly Utah’s best kept secret.

Sitting at the heart of Heber Valley, Midway is the gateway to some incredible natural landscapes and wonderful family oriented day trips.

For nature lovers the Wasatch Mountain State Park is a fantastic place to spend a morning hiking and exploring, as too is Cascade Springs.

If you are keen on fishing, kayaking or paddle boarding then make a beeline for Deer Creek Dam and Reservoir.

Midway city has dozens of classic American diners, the perfect place to refuel before you return to Salt Lake City.

3. Fishlake National Forest

It is safe to say that Utah is home to some of the most photogenic landscapes in all of the United States of America and you can surely find the perfect postcard picture within Fishlake National Forest.

Towering aspen trees fringe the rugged mountainous meadows and wild flower adored prairies.

Fish Lake, the lake that gives this magical national forest its name, is vastly considered to be the jewel of Utah and is the largest freshwater mountain lake in the state.

Come rain or shine, summer, winter, fall or spring there is a new landscape and natural vista to explore at Fishlake National Forest.

4. Heber Valley Railroad

For locomotive enthusiasts or those travelling with train-obsessed children the Heber Valley Railroad is a great day trip from Salt Lake City.

This heritage railway runs from Heber City to Vivian Park.

This 90-minute journey sees you travel through a section of Utah’s most impressive scenery and past Deer Creek Reservoir where you have the chance to sight dozens of species of bird.

The Heber Valley Railroad team do a great job of bringing this heritage railway into the modern era by running themed events and parties every week.

Youngsters will love the prince and princess events and the adults will enjoy the comedy trips for sure.

5. Ogden Valley

Whatever the weather there is some serious fun to be had in Ogden Valley.

Whether you like to get active or kick back and relax there is an activity to suit you down to the ground.

From jagged mountain peaks to gurgling fresh water streams, from horse riding to mountain biking and beyond, the possibilities are truly endless.

Ogden Valley Canyon is a great place to get to grips with rock climbing, and if you’re something of a pro there are two more challenging rock faces to scale.

Come the winter be sure to head up to Powder Mountain and find your snow legs on Utah’s largest ski resort.

6. Crystal Hot Springs

If you are in need of a touch of TLC and a completely relaxing day then look no further than the Utah’s Crystal Hot Springs.

Amazingly, Crystal Hot Springs in Honeyville has the highest mineral content of any hot springs in the world; quite incredible really.

This water is truly rejuvenating and if you arrive and wish to stay a little longer you can book yourself into a B&B in Brigham City where you’ll find a heap of great restaurants too.

This is something of a honeypot site for locals, and travellers too, so be prepared to be bathing with the masses.

That said, with a range of different pools and temperatures it never feels too overcrowded.

Sitting on the shores of Utah Lake is the buzzing, bustling university city of Provo.

With a young, open minded and laid back community Provo is a wonderful place to have a lazy day hopping from coffee shop to coffee shop, or get learning and exploring.

The Brigham Young University Museum of Art is a contemporary venue that hosts a great selection of art works from across genres.

At the BYU Museum of Palaeontology you can learn all about dinosaurs, fossils and the ancient world.

Running along the same theme, the Monte L Bean Life Science Museum houses dozens of animal dioramas and a fantastic selections of environmental exhibits.

8. Solitude Mountain Resort

You need not stray too far from Salt Lake City in order to hit the snow.

Solitude Mountain Resort is one of Utah’s best loved ski fields and is open throughout the year for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.

You can rock up and hire your kit for the day and jump on the ski lift or book in for a lesson or two.

Whether you’re a pro or a total rookie the Solitude Mountain Resort team will take great care of you.

What people love about Solitude Mountain Resort is its intimate feel, there is a real community feel to the place, you’ll make some special memories indeed.

9. Mount Timpanogos

Often affectionately referred to simply as Timp, Mount Timpanogos forms one of Utah’s most iconic and breathtaking landscapes.

It is also the second highest mountain in the Wasatch Range.

Although it retains its wilderness-like feel Mount Timpanogos is a well trod path and is one of the most challenging yet popular hiking trails in the state.

If you can manage the full 15 mile round trip to the summit then hats off to you but if you fancy something a little easier then you have plenty of options.

You can take a leisurely hike up to Timpooneke Trailhead and come back down.

You can push on to Timp Saddle and back track or power on up to Mt Timpanogos Summit.

10. Gobblers Knob

More than just a giggle-worthy name Gobblers Knob is towering mountain peak that broods over the Wasatch Mountains and Salt Lake City itself.

This is a hike designed for the more adventurous and well versed hiker and follows along the Alexander Basin Trail.

Once you step out of the wildflower dotted meadows it’s an all uphill trudge to the 10,246ft summit.

The stunning view from the summit are worth every last step.

To the East you’ll see Reynolds Peak and to the Southwest Mt Raymond.

Turn to the south-west and you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of Grandeur Peak and Salt Lake City.

11. Mirror Lake Scenic Byway

If you enjoy a leisurely countryside drive then the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is right up your street.

This byway is guarded by mountains and adorned with dozens of tranquil lakes.

The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway even takes you through parts of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest which is simply breathtaking.

With countless pull over points you can spend a whole day on a steady drive along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway stopping to take photographs and mini hikes as you go.

The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway takes you through dense woodlands, out into ranch lands and then in towards the snow-capped mountain peaks.

12. Cedar City

Tucked away in Iron County is the heritage city of Cedar City.

Proudly preserving its frontier and pioneer history, Cedar City allows you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the real Wild West.

The Frontier Homestead State Museum is a fun and informative day out for all the family.

Featuring a traditional stage coach ride and a number of engaging permanent exhibits, and dozens of insightful visiting exhibits too; the Frontier Homestead State Museum is a must visit.

In the afternoon you have the option to visit Park Discovery or branch out to the Southern Utah Museum of Art and catch a glimpse of some of Salvador Dali’s most impressive work.

The small town of Eden can be found in Weber County and is the gateway to some of Utah’s best ski fields.

Within easy reach of Powder Mountain, Nordic Valley and Snow Basin Eden provides a great introduction to Utah’s mountains.

If you are not so keen on the steeper hikes then getting your hiking boots on in Eden is a great idea.

You get to look up to the moody mountains above while strolling through the wildflower-peppered meadows and prairies; genuinely the best of both worlds.

There are a number of locally run restaurants and diners in Eden where you will find classic American dishes and quintessentially Utah hospitality.

14. Antelope Island

Antelope Island is a wildlife lover’s dream day trip.

Home to a healthy heard of free ranging bison, bighorn sheep, and mule deer Antelope Island is too home to its namesake species the pronghorn, or antelope.

Antelope Island is rich in birdlife and sees thousands of species visit its shores throughout the year.

There are dozens of walking and hiking trails to choose from and all pass the natural habitats of the species who live here.

Remember to respect the wildlife, do not stray too close and certainly do not feed any of them.

Photography is permitted inside the park but drones are only allowed to be used on weekdays between December and February.

15. Goblin Valley State Park

Have you ever heard of a hoodoo rock? At the Goblin Valley State Park you will find thousands upon thousands of these mushroom-like rocky protrusions, known to the geographers as hoodoo rocks but to locals as ‘goblins’. This red rusty landscape is not only incredibly photogenic but fascinating to learn about.

They were formed by an erosion-resistant layer of rock that sits above the soft sandstone of Utah.

Bryce Canyon State Park is the most famous landscape of this kind but the Goblin Valley State Park is perfect for travellers who like to get off the beaten track and find the real hidden gems of the world.

15 Best Day Trips from Salt Lake City:

• Bonneville Salt Flats
• Fishlake National Forest
• Heber Valley Railroad
• Ogden Valley
• Crystal Hot Springs
• Solitude Mountain Resort
• Mount Timpanogos
• Gobblers Knob
• Mirror Lake Scenic Byway
• Antelope Island
• Goblin Valley State Park

30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Salt Lake City (Utah)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: September 25, 2019  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Salt Lake City, Utah is among the most famous and cool places in America.

Steeped in rich religious history and unique culture, this populous city is packed with places to go, sources of entertainment and unique areas to explore, whether you’re there for a day, a weekend, a week, or longer!

But it can be tricky to narrow down exactly what to see while you’re in this beautiful and fascinating city.

After all, how can you pick the coolest, nicest locations in a place that is so full of intrigue and wonder?

To help you choose the right spots to go to, here are 30 best & fun things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah, one of the most beautiful places in America .

Table of Contents

1. Natural History Museum of Utah

Uladzik Kryhin / Shutterstock

The Natural History Museum of Utah is undoubtedly one of the coolest places to see around Salt Lake City if you’re into history, science, and culture.

It gives you an inside look into Utah and its rich past, ranging from its geography to its native background, as well as its most crucial historical moments.

The museum boasts 10 permanent exhibits, as well as a wide variety of interactive features involving smell, touch, and other senses.

It showcases interesting facts about the Great Salt Lake, covers over 500 million years of information on Salt Lake City, and provides occasional seasonal displays to peruse each time you go there.

One of the most popular exhibits is the First Peoples Exhibit, which covers the five initial Native American nations in the state, but there are many more to see.

That’s why visiting this museum is among the top things to do in Salt Lake City!

Address:  301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA

2. The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square

Jerry and Pat Donaho / flickr

One of the Salt Lake City attractions that no tourist can miss is The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square .

You don’t have to be religious to enjoy the harrowing and beautiful melodies and harmonies created by this talented and spiritual group of singers.

At 9.30 am every Sunday, the choir’s performance is broadcast live.

But you can watch them in action in person for free if you’re in Utah between September and November as well as January and May.

During this time, the choir offers free rehearsal attendance to the public for an hour at night on Thursdays.

Worried you won’t get a seat?

In December and between June and September, rehearsals are specifically tailored to cater to bigger crowds at the LDS Conference Center near the famous Temple Square of Salt Lake City.

There is also a bonus organ recital that happens in the afternoon 6 days a week, which is extra fun to sit in and listen to!

3. Temple Square

JVE001 / Shutterstock

Temple Square is one of the top 10 points of interest in Salt Lake City, Utah, hands down.

Located in downtown Salt Lake City, it stands out as the main attraction of SLC with its beautiful architecture and imposing structure.

It spans across 10 acres and is surrounded by gorgeous greenery.

This square is mainly used as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ headquarters, but you don’t need to share the faith to visit.

While you’re there, you can learn about Latter-day Saints’ history and the intricacies of the religion, and some volunteers are onsite to provide tours and give you lots of interesting facts about the faith and its background.

Temple Square is home to multiple other famous spots, such as the Tabernacle, a wide range of museums, Latter-day Saints sites, and plenty of other locations you’ll want to check out.

Address:  50 N Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150, USA

4. Great Salt Lake

Johnny Adolphson / Shutterstock

The Great Salt Lake runs for 1,700 square miles, making it the biggest natural lake in Utah, and the largest between there and the Mississippi River.

The lake’s salty nature is due to the mineral deposits it leaves behind when it evaporates, and it is this iconic body of water that gave Salt Lake City its name.

There are plenty of activities to take part in at the lake.

You can go fishing, swimming, or boating, or sit down for a picnic near the water to look over this amazing Utah location.

Hiking trails and lots of wildlife are ready to be seen for the less aqua-inclined, too.

If you like, you can drop by the visitor center to learn more about the area.

It’s definitely among the best things to do in Salt Lake City!

5. Utah’s Hogle Zoo

Kent Slade / flickr

The Hogle Zoo spans 42 acres and is well-known for being among the top spots in Salt Lake City if you’re looking for a little fun.

It is situated right at the foot of the Wasatch Mountain Range, where it is host to countless animals, both local to Salt Lake City as well as more exotic and rare.

A variety of exhibits within this most famous zoo in Salt Lake City showcase different individual ecosystems in each one.

An Asian highlands exhibit shows off Pallas’ cats, Amur tigers, Siberian lynxes, and more fantastic wildcats.

An African Savannah exhibit shows off zebras, lions, giraffes, and even ostriches.

Other exhibits include an Elephant Encounter and a Rocky Shores display, the latter of which shows all sorts of marine mammals and even polar bears.

So if you’re looking for things to do in SLC, look no further!

Address:  2600 Sunnyside Ave S, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States

Going on a road trip around Utah? Why not check out some of the things to do in Utah ?

6. Utah State Capitol

Don Mammoser / Shutterstock

The Utah State Capitol has its home in Salt Lake City itself, where it serves as one of the region’s main attractions.

It rises 300 feet into the air and is located on Capitol Hill, designed classically with stunning and regal architecture.

It is elegantly opulently decorated, with a dome topping that can be spotted from across the city and marble furnishings within.

The Capitol is open to visitors.

You can enjoy sights of the Golden Room, which is where the Governor holds receptions, as well as some interesting galleries furnished with rotating exhibitions.

Collections of items from around Salt Lake City and beyond adorn the area open to visitors, giving you an insightful glimpse into the state and what it stands for.

Address:  350 N State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84103, United States

7. Utah Museum of Fine Arts

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is among the coolest places to visit in Salt Lake City for art and history lovers.

Steeped in culture, this Salt Lake City location is a part of the campus of the University of Utah, doubling up as a university and a state museum.

Originally opened back in the 1950s, this location boasts over 20 galleries, each with a variety of exhibits – some of which are static, and some of which are rotating.

More than 17,000 items are displayed as part of permanent collections, and they’re not just restricted to pieces by those near Salt Lake City.

European and Asian art joins the American works on display.

A healthy mix of classical and modern works adorn the museum, giving you a lot of different styles to appreciate.

Address:  410 Campus Center Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA

8. Ensign Peak

robert cicchetti / Shutterstock

If you’re in Salt Lake City for the weekend, one of the best things you can do is take a hike up to Ensign Peak , which offers an incredible view of this Utah City.

It’s only about half a mile’s hike up, making it a simple and easy option for beginner hikers, and it provides extremely rewarding results!

Sunset is undoubtedly the most opportune time to take a trip to this stunning peak, though it can be crowded at this time.

Still, the extra people are worth the journey regardless!

You’ll be treated to views of the Great Salt Lake bathed in the evening, orange sun, and you’ll even be able to look over Salt Lake Valley, and to the city Capitol.

So if you’re planning a trip to be one with nature and you’re looking for what to do in Salt Lake City, going to Ensign Peak is a noble and ultimately wonderful journey!

Address:  Ensign Peak Trail, Salt Lake City, UT 84103, United States

9. Liberty Park

Chris Curtis / Shutterstock

Liberty Park is one of the more iconic Salt Lake City locations today, especially for sightseeing.

It was first purchased from Bingham Young’s estate back in 1881, and now (and since 1980), it is on the National Registry of Historic Places.

This oasis covers 80 acres of land, and it is the largest park in all of SLC.

You can walk, bike, or hike around the stunning landscape of lush green, play volleyball or basketball, go swimming in the pool, and take a trip to a number of interesting spots along the way.

There’s the Isaac Chase Mill, which holds the title of the oldest building for commercial purposes in Utah.

You can stop by Tracey Aviary, which is home to 135 different bird species, specifically those that are endangered or rare.

There is also the Chase Home of Museum of Utah Folk Art, which offers free admission and showcases the greatest that Salt Lake City and its surrounding regions have to offer.

Address:  600 East 900 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84105, USA

10. Marmalade Hill Historic District

Ntsimp [CC0], via Wikimedia Commons

It is named because of the multiple fruit and plant-based street names that span across the area, provided due to early Salt Lake City settlers who brought these items with them.

There are a number of unique and fascinating, historically rich buildings to see here.

Quince Street is famous for its wealth of cultural value, with such gems as the Thomas Quayle House and the John Platts house, both near to each other.

You’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time in this whimsical historical location.

Exploring other areas of Utah? Why not check out some of the things to do in Moab ?

11. This Is The Place Monument

Ladanifer / Shutterstock

How, exactly, did Salt Lake City become the home of the Latter-day Saints’ faith?

Well, it all began right at this spot: the This Is The Place Monument , so named because that is what Brigham Young exclaimed when they arrived upon the Utah city.

The congregation of Latter-day Saints followers had been traveling and hiking with Brigham Young across 1,300 miles before they emerged from Emigration Canyon and came upon Salt Lake City.

Young immediately took note of the place, as he said he had seen the exact valley in which they emerged in a vision.

A monument was erected 100 years after the people settled into their new Salt Lake City homes, meaning it dates back to 1947.

It’s one of the best places to visit for a true slice of history, and among the most-loved tourist attractions in the region.

Address:  2601 Sunnyside Ave S, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States

Planning a trip to California soon? Be sure to check out some of the most beautiful places to see in California !

12. Pioneer Memorial Museum

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock

The Pioneer Memorial Museum holds the biggest collection of artifacts devoted to one specific topic of history – the settlement of the first Latter-day Saints people to come to live in Salt Lake City, and even Utah.

Written artifacts, information and data collections, and rich photos line the displays, as well as extensive memorabilia collections.

The museum chronicles the entrance of the very first pioneers into what would one day be Salt Lake City, all the way up to the beginning of railroad paths in the region.

Many of the items on display are fairly “normal” – dresses, quilts, instruments, and more – all used by the Latter-day Saints’ migrants during their historical journey to their promised land.

There are some rather fascinating display items, too – such as rattles of rattlesnakes, Victoria art made from hair, and a potato that has been petrified.

It is one of the more unusual points of interest in Salt Lake City, but it’s worth the visit, and it’s one of the more fun museums to check out!

Address:  300 N Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84103, United States

13. Fisher Brewing Company

Fisher Brewing Company

The Fisher Brewing Company was once an auto shop, but it wasn’t long before Albert Fisher, an immigrant from Germany, decided to start up this Salt Lake City, Utah company in the Granary District.

This was back in 1884, and since then, generations have taken up the helm and continued their tradition – albeit in a smaller way.

Now, Tony Fisher, the great-great-grandson of Albert Fisher, continues to operate the brewery, though this is done on a smaller scale.

Fisher alcoholic beverages are only sold from the brewing company’s taproom, so it’s pretty exclusive to Salt Lake City and won’t be found in any retail outlets.

Adults will especially enjoy taking a trip to this brewery, where you’ll get to sample delicious and well-crafted Fisher, as well as enjoy fare from food trucks near the entrance.

If you like your alcohol, visiting the Fisher Brewing Company is definitely among the things to do in Salt Lake City today that you can’t miss!

Address:  320 W 800 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA

14. Salt Lake City Public Library

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

The Salt Lake City Public Library opened its doors back in 2003, and if you’re a fan of books or architecture or both, then this is definitely among the nicest places to visit while you’re in Utah.

It houses a whopping 500,000 books and more and provides lots and lots of relaxing areas to lounge in as you enjoy your reading material of choice.

Of all the things to see in this region, the Salt Lake City Public Library probably boasts the most stunning works of modern architecture in its design and build.

Its contemporary appearance has drawn many visitors, who enjoy a lovely cafe indoors or hunker down to read for a few hours.

There’s also a rooftop garden that offers great Wasatch Mountain views!

Recent visitors said the architecture alone is reason enough to visit, while others appreciated the friendly staff and on-site cafe.

You can also find a wide range of different stores situated in the Library Square area, including a stunning rooftop garden that offers fantastic views of the Wasatch Mountains.

It’s also perfect for a little peace and quiet while you read, write, or get some fresh air.

Check their website for opening times!

Address:  210 E 400 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, United States

15. Summum Pyramid

Visiting the Summum Pyramid has got to be one of the more interesting, fun things to do in Salt Lake City.

The first Summum is a play on the Latin Summus, which means “highest”.

The pyramid was completely in 1979, where it serves as a modern mummification provider as well as the church’s center for meditation and teaching.

The Summum religion was founded by Claude Corky Nowell in 1975 after he claimed to have an unusual encounter with hyper-intelligent beings that he referred to as Summa individuals.

They apparently revealed the universe’s true nature to him, prompting him to change his name to Summum Bonum Amon Ra and form the religion, which is based in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Much of Summum beliefs draw from polytheism and often seem to be a blend of religious spirituality and science fiction.

It is this uncanny eccentric nature that makes the Summum Pyramid one of the most mysterious Salt Lake City attractions.

You can step in during the evenings every Wednesday to join philosophical discussions.

Address:  707 Genesee Ave, Salt Lake City, UT 84104, United States

Looking for more thrills around Utah? Why not check out some of the things to do in St. George ?

16. Big Cottonwood Canyon

Brad Young / Shutterstock

The Big Cottonwood Canyon is a must-see if you’re in Utah for a weekend.

It sits at the bottom of the Wasatch Mountain Range and spans 15-miles.

It is just a short drive away from the more urban parts of Salt Lake City and is packed with things to do.

If you’re a fan of nature, you’ll love this canyon!

While you’re in this SLC spot, you can visit multiple lakes – including Lake Mary and Lake Blanche – as well as go hiking, biking, or walking to take in the scenery.

You will also be able to enjoy picnics, outdoor sports, water activities, and winter sports (during the right seasons).

Some people also like to camp or fish in this Salt Lake City haven.

Address: Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd, Uintah-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Salt Lake City, UT 84121, USA

17. City Creek Center

The City Creek Center is the best spot to go if you like shopping – and it’s probably the greatest mall in all of Utah.

Located in downtown Salt Lake City, near to State Street, it covers 700,000 square feet of land, and over 90 different restaurants, shops, and more can be found inside.

But the City Creek Center isn’t just about fantastic shopping.

It’s also a beautifully decorated and designed location, with a huge glass ceiling that serves as a retractable skylight and is moved in and out based on the weather.

It also boasts waterfalls, fountains, and a 1,200-foot stream full of fish!

Apart from many common retail outlets, the mall also houses some unique and more interesting dining and retail outlets from Salt Lake City, Utah itself.

It’s an award-winning mall, too – even more reason to check it out!

Address:  50 Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, United States

18. Redwood Drive-In Movie Theatre

lrterry78 / Shutterstock

Looking for some entertainment while you’re in Salt Lake City?

Head over to the Redwood Drive-In Theatre , which has been showcasing double features (two movies!) for one low price since 1948.

Lots of people are fans of the theatre and come by at night now to enjoy $9 ticket fares and the old-fashioned movie-showings right in Salt Lake City, Utah!

Adults who grew up during the era of drive-in popularity – back in the 50s – will especially enjoy this nostalgic trip down memory lane.

Make sure you’re not late – you’ll want to get a good parking spot.

It’s definitely one of the coolest things to do in Salt Lake City this weekend!

Address:  3688 S Redwood Rd, West Valley City, UT 84119, United States

19. Salt Lake Trolley Tours

Salt Lake Trolley Tours

Salt Lake Trolley Tours are a great way to go sightseeing and spot all the attractions that this Utah region is known for!

The trolley you will ride is painted bright red and a replica of trolleys of old, and it will take you and a small group through the downtown area of Salt Lake City, showing you all the most crucial monuments and locations that the city has to offer.

While you’re on board, you’ll be given lots of information about the history of Salt Lake City and its famous sites.

You’ll see the State Capitol Building, Temple Square, and other spots near to them.

There is also the option of a tour cruise, which brings you through a more scenic experience.

20. Ralphael Plescia’s Christian School

Ralphael Plescia’s Christian School

If you’re looking for something unorthodox to do this weekend in Salt Lake City, Utah, look no further than Ralphael Plescia’s Christian School.

It has been almost five decades since Plescia began studying and compiling lesser-known Biblical passage, using them as artistic inspiration.

Mostly, he focuses on Eve and Heavenly Mother, though there is much more to be seen at this “school”.

Plescia made use of empty buildings in the southern region of Salt Lake City in order to create his school.

It is now a garden that houses multiple gigantic sculptures that cover the area, winding upwards into the sky, depicting specific Biblical figures and Biblical passages and stories.

What’s even more impressive is how Plescia worked on all of this out of his own passion.

A dome, self-built, towers over the school’s top, and he dug out the basement by hand.

Visit in the afternoon on a Friday or Sunday to receive a tour of his spectacular garden and listen to his inspiration behind each piece.

If you’re looking for what to do in SLC that is unusual but fascinating, this is your best bet!

Address: 1324 State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84115, USA

21. Thanksgiving Point

Have kids? Take them to Thanksgiving Point , one of the best things to do in Salt Lake City if you’re looking for a versatile and fun adventure!

It contains many different treasured locations within its 55 acres, including a movie theater, a petting farm, the Butterfly Biosphere, and a golf course.

There’s also the Museum of Ancient Life, which is a very high-tech museum great for kids!

Best of all, these spots are all near to each other, so you can take a trip to all of them.

Of course, you don’t need to have children to enjoy this lovely Salt Lake City, Utah location.

Enjoy the golf course, gardens, and go dining or shopping, all within Thanksgiving Point itself!

Address:  3003 N Thanksgiving Way, Lehi, UT 84043, United States

22. Family History Library

The Family History Library is a fantastic free-to-the-public library.

It is located in downtown Salt Lake City as is run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and its purpose is to pursue genealogical research and assist visitors in finding information about their ancestry.

And this isn’t just limited to Salt Lake City or Utah locals!

There’s lots of stuff to do in this library, and a variety of workshops and classes hosted by this SLC location will show you to do them.

You will be taught how to use the library’s resources, databases, and records.

You can get further assistance from staff, and over 30 languages are ready to be used for this assistance.

This Salt Lake City library first opened in 1894, and since then, millions of individuals from different countries have been able to utilize its extensive resources to find out more about themselves and their ancestry.

Take a trip there and learn something about your history!

Address:  35 N West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150, USA

23. Utah Olympic Park

Jakub Zajic / Shutterstock

The Utah Olympic Park located in Park City was built for the Winter Olympic Games of 2002, and it’s among the top must-see spots near Salt Lake City.

Back then, it hosted a variety of events, such as Nordic ski jumping, bobsleigh, luge, and more.

You can go on guided tours so you can witness all the places to see within the park

A variety of activities are available, some of them being seasonal.

Summer promises the Xtreme Zipline, which is the steepest of its kind internationally, the Quicksilver Alpine Slide, freestyle ski jumping, and more.

Meanwhile, the winter brings Nordic ski jumping, the Comet Bobsled, the terrain park, the Rocket Skeleton, and more.

Address:  3419 Olympic Pkwy, Park City, UT 84098, United States

24. Beehive House

Sopotnicki / Shutterstock

The Beehive House is one of the more popular attractions in Salt Lake City, Utah – especially for those curious about Latter-day Saints history.

It displays a beehive symbol on one of its turrets, which was representative of the hardworking nature of the Latter-day Saints – and also a part of the Utah coat of arms.

When Brigham Young was the governor of the state, he lived in this 1854 home, along with his 19 wives and 56 children.

Many aspects of the Latter-day Saints faith were incorporated into this home, keeping its residence near to their religion, and visiting it for a tour is one of the top things to do in Salt Lake City.

Address:  67 E S Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150, United States

25. Tracy Aviary

M Outdoors / Shutterstock

We’ve already talked about Tracy Aviary when mentioning the famed Liberty Park of Salt Lake City, Utah, but even if you’re not interested in the whole park, the aviary itself is one of the best tourist attractions for animal-lovers and families.

The aviary hosts more than 400 different types of birds, which come from 135 different species, most of which are either endangered or rare.

They are all housed over 8 acres of land, within exhibits that show them in a replica of their natural ecosystems and habitats.

This aviary, first opened in 1938, is definitely one of the best things to see if you’re a fan of birds!

These birds aren’t local to just Salt Lake City – many are more exotic, such as the Chilean king vultures.

Address:  589 E 1300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84105, USA

26. Gallivan Center

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

Gallivan Center is one of the best entertainment-related points of interest in all of Salt Lake City, especially if you’re into a little nightlife.

Located in the downtown area of Salt Lake City, a wide range of artists perform at music festivals regularly thrown in the area.

Some performers are local, from Utah or from America in general, and others fly in from various parts of the world.

June is probably a good time to take a trip to Gallivan Center when it hosts a Blues music festival that is the greatest that Salt Lake City – and even the whole state – has to offer.

Address:  239 Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, United States

27. Gilgal Sculpture Garden

sporst / flickr

The Gilgal Sculpture Garden is a stunning wonder that serves as a surprisingly peaceful respite from the businesses and homes near to it.

It is a hidden gem of Salt Lake City, built by Thomas Battersby Child, Jr. sometime in the middle of the 20th century.

Walk through the garden and you’ll immediately see why it’s one of the most impressive simple attractions in this Utah city.

More than 70 engraved stones are scattered throughout it, engraved meticulously with Latter-day Saints literature and odd carved images of all kinds.

12 original sculptures also lie in wait for perusal, as well as a statue of Child himself!

It took almost two decades for Child to shape Gilgal Sculpture Garden into the blissful and fascinating oasis it is today.

Visiting it is one of the most fun things to do in Salt Lake City!

Address:  749 E 500 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102, United States

28. Red Butte Garden

Chaithanya Krishnan / Shutterstock

The Red Butte Garden is an outdoor center that is one of the most perfect places for sightseeing in Salt Lake City, Utah.

It houses miles upon miles of trails upon its 100-acre foundation that you can follow for fun or for exercise, all winding through garden houses.

All sorts of presentations of fauna and flora are on display in the garden all year long, making it a great Salt Lake City destination for nature-lovers.

It also has a botanical garden, an amphitheater that puts on music concerts in the summer, and an arboretum.

You can also take part in classes on gardening, educational programs, and special holiday events if you’re in Salt Lake City at the right time for them!

Address:  300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States

29. Eccles Theatre

Eccles Theater

The Eccles Theatre is a relatively new addition to downtown Salt Lake City, Utah, but it has since served as the venue for a wide range of amazing and entrancing performances.

Adults and kids alike are sure to find a performance they’d like to see while here for a weekend!

The seats feel comfortable and opulent, so you’ll feel like you’re in the lap of luxury the whole time.

Broadway musicals, bands, and comedians have all taken the time to drop by this Salt Lake City venue and perform, as well as some local Utah acts.

The theatre itself is a true stunner and a wonder to see, and after enjoying the show and applauding, you can easily walk to artisanal eateries nearby for a great end to tonight’s outing.

Address:  131 Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USA

30. Clark Planetarium

Original photograph Mike Murray, composited with public domain nebula from NASA

The Clark Planetarium is a wonderful and fun educational location that is among the best things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Over 10,000 square feet of ground throughout the spot offer countless multidimensional exhibits and lots of activities to take part in.

When you enter, you’ll get to explore a free hall full of interactive and informational exhibits.

You’ll forget you’re in Utah at all as you learn more about the planet, the solar system, and the progress of space exploration.

There is also a 3D IMAX theatre, so if you come to Salt Lake City with your kids, they’ll love rushing in to watch educational feature films!

You can find the Clark Planetarium in the Gateway District, where it hosts sprawling galleries and exhibits that will amaze and engage you.

You’ll be impressed with all that it has to offer, especially if you’re intrigued by the mysterious world of space.

It’s an experience unlike any other!

Address:  110 400 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Salt Lake city

Salt Lake City is teeming with places to visit and fun things to see.

No matter where you go around SLC, so many activities are waiting for you to engage in and enjoy.

Beyond just the top, most popular places, many hidden gems in this Utah region are waiting for you to peruse.

There’s a little something for everyone, no matter what you’re into and who you’re with!

The best of Salt Lake City's great outdoors (and indoors)

Aug 30, 2021 • 7 min read

Salt Lake City combines the best of city life with world-class outdoor adventures © f11photo / Shutterstock

Whether you enjoy exploring the great outdoors, wandering through a museum, learning about your family history or experiencing Olympic activities, Salt Lake City , Utah, has it all.

With a combination of city life and nearby world-class outdoor adventures, you get the best of both worlds. 

Salt Lake City was founded in 1847 by Brigham Young and has a history steeped in the Mormon faith. Therefore, there are plenty of interesting religious institutions and monuments to visit. It is also surrounded by a variety of landscapes and terrain that make it a top spot for world-class skiing , hiking, mountain biking and, of course, taking a dip in the Great Salt Lake.

We’ve put together a list of our top things to do while visiting this eclectic city.  

1. Mormon Tabernacle Choir 

One of the most iconic things to see and do in Salt Lake City is to attend a rehearsal of the world-renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir . With a 360-member volunteer chorus of men and women, their vocals lift the spirits of those attending their rehearsals. Visitors to the Mormon Tabernacle, located in Temple Square , can also listen to pipe organ concerts, organ recitals and bells rehearsals.

2. Utah Olympic Park

Olympics fans will love experiencing what it’s like to be in the shoes of an Olympian at Utah Olympic Park . Built for the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games, visitors can try things like bobsledding or freestyle skiing and snowboarding (both in winter and summer). The facility also has adventures like ziplining, airbag jumps, alpine slides, extreme tubing and more. 

Check out the Flying Ace All-Stars Freestyle Show , get a guided tour of the venue or jump off the 41-foot high dive platform. The 400-acre venue is located 25 miles east of Salt Lake City. For ice skating, check out the Utah Olympic Oval and for Nordic skiing and e-bike rentals, visit the Soldier Hollow Nordic Center. To get a glimpse of the Olympic cauldron, go to the south end of the Rice-Eccles Stadium at the University of Utah.

The best time to visit Salt Lake City

3. The Great Salt Lake

You can’t visit Salt Lake City without floating in the Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the western hemisphere. It is located within the Salt Lake City State Park , just 16 miles west of Salt Lake City. The salinity of the water, ranging anywhere between 5 to 27 percent salt, makes it very buoyant. Other activities include sailing, kayaking, and hiking. Bring binoculars because there is a plethora of wildlife to view, such as bison, antelope, deer, bobcats, coyotes, elk and birds.

4. Natural History Museum of Utah

Visitors to the Natural History Museum of Utah can learn about and explore collections related to paleontology, anthropology, vertebrate zoology, entomology, botany, mineralogy and malacology. There are 11 permanent exhibitions that range from life and land to gems and minerals and so much more. The museum also features special exhibitions that rotate throughout the year. Just the mineralogy collection alone contains 5000 items. Explore an archeological reconstruction of a Median Village in the First People exhibit. The museum will entertain adults and children with hours of content to examine.

5. Red Butte Garden

Red Butte Garden , located at the University of Utah, has 21 acres of award-winning gardens. There is something for everyone. Visitors can wander through the many themed gardens of the area which spans the flora scope from medicinals, herbs and roses to an orangerie. Guests can also enjoy concerts, educational workshops, garden tours and five miles of hiking trails. One of the most impressive times to visit is spring when there are 524,000 bulbs in bloom.

6. Family History Library

To do in-depth research about your heritage, visit the Family History Library . The tools and resources available include the largest collection of genealogy materials in the world, which consists of books, film, photographs and documents. The library has skilled research assistants on hand to help discover your roots. Want to preserve your memories to share with future generations? Take advantage of the free photo and document scanner or convert your VHS and DVD videos to digital formats for easy sharing and storing. 

How to get around in Salt Lake City

7. Thanksgiving Point

With a working farm, expansive gardens and interactive museums, Thanksgiving Point is full of educational and entertaining experiences for the whole family. Be surrounded by 1000 butterflies in the Butterfly Biosphere , try out some of the 400 interactive experiences at the Museum of Natural Curiosity, get up close and personal with cows, goats, horses, chickens, sheep and pigs at Farm Country, examine life-sized dinosaur skeletons or wander through 50 acres of pristinely manicured gardens – that includes the largest manmade waterfall in the Western Hemisphere.

8. Clark Planetarium

Learn about space at the  Clark Planetarium with interactive exhibits focusing on meteors, the moon, space weather, solar flares, planets, magnetic fields and more. Touch a meteorite, experience the force of gravity, watch water freeze instantly or test-drive a rover. Visit the Hansen Dome Theater for a musical laser light show or get a tour of the night sky.

9. Timpanogos Cave

About 40 minutes outside of Salt Lake City, in the nearby Wasatch Mountains, is Timpanogos Cave National Monument . Visitors can discover the wonders of geology as they explore the cool underground caves. Learn about how helicities are formed, enter the Chimes Chamber with hundreds of spiral formations, or follow fault lines in the Imagination Room. Take a guided tour to get dirty as you crawl and climb through the caves.

10. Gilgal Sculpture Garden

Meander through the free Gilgal Sculpture Garden with 12 sculptures and 70 large stones engraved with meaningful passages. The creator, Thomas Battersby Child, Jr. worked on building the pieces of art on his property for 18 years until he passed away in 1963. The garden is now a Salt Lake City park and is maintained by the Friends of Gilgal Garden and the Salt Lake City Master Gardener Association. It is a unique and inspiring outing for all to enjoy.

11. Temple Square

Located in the center of downtown Salt Lake City, the Salt Lake Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is surrounded by the five-block area of Temple Square . The Square is the hub of worship, history, commemoration, gatherings and music. Visitors can take a free guided tour to visit the temple, museums, libraries, gardens, monuments and fountains.

12. Utah Museum of Fine Arts

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is located at the University of Utah and was created to showcase contemporary art and prompt discussions about the role art plays in our lives. The museum’s collection houses 20,000 pieces of art. The gallery features 10 ongoing exhibitions that showcase art from several regions and cultures around the world, including Japan, China, Europe, America, Africa, South Asia, the Pacific and more. Revel at the nearly 4000-year tradition of Chinese ceramics, the tribal textiles from Africa or the twenty-sixth dynasty Egyptian coffin. Temporary exhibitions rotate throughout the year. The museum also hosts events such as Art and Yoga, art classes, lectures and online programs.

13. Grandeur Peak

The Wasatch Mountains offer excellent hiking and opportunities to interact with nature. Get picturesque views of Salt Lake City by hiking the six-mile loop from Church Fork Trail to Grandeur Peak East located only about 20 minutes from downtown. The steep hike, which includes a waterfall and switchbacks, leads to Grandeur Peak at 8299ft – a worthwhile way to spend some time outside of the city.

14. Tracy Aviary and Botanical Garden

Located in Liberty Park, Tracy Aviary and Botanical Garden is a delight for the senses. This eight-acre aviary lets you see, hear and touch a large variety of birds including pelicans, eagles, cranes, flamingos, vultures, owls and more. There are 18 exhibits such as the Amazon Adventure, Destination Argentina, Wetland Experience and Treasures of the Rainforest. Visitors can feed birds, adopt birds or see an entertaining bird show. 

From the Salt Lake Airport to the slopes in an hour or less: 10 Utah ski resorts

15. Jordan River Off-Highway Vehicles State Recreation Area

Partake in the thrill of off-roading at the Jordan River Off-Highway Vehicles State Recreation Area . This Utah State Park, located in Salt Lake City, features five motocross tracks and one ATV/UTV track with tabletops and banked turns. Helmets, vehicle registration, safety certificate and driver’s license or OHV education program required.

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64 Things to Do in Salt Lake City (An Epic Guide!)

You can set aside a full month and still not get through all of the fun things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Trust me. We did exactly that. 

We spent a long weekend in Salt Lake City to start but always knew we’d return. We were lucky enough to make a full month happen as part of our nomadic adventures and were still left wanting more. Apart from everything to see in the capital city, it’s an excellent base for day trips.

I’ll get into all of that and more in this guide to all of my favorite Salt Lake City attractions.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, including links through the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I won’t recommend something I have not used/would not use myself, and any income earned supports the upkeep of this site.

Is Salt Lake City worth a visit?

Salt Lake City is worth a visit no matter when you can make it happen. It’s a great base for ski trips in the winter and alpine lake hikes in the summer. That said, you don’t even need to leave the city limits to enjoy all of the cultural offerings and delicious restaurants in Salt Lake City proper.

Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City, Utah

We spent a full month in Salt Lake City on top of weekend trips to the Utah city before that lengthy stay. That means we saw a lot of what the city has to offer. Interested in a map of all of my favorite SLC activities? Follow the link below:

GIMME MY SALT LAKE CITY ATTRACTIONS MAP!

1. pop by the salt lake city council hall..

Salt Lake City Council Hall is home to the Utah Office of Tourism, so it’s a great place to start Salt Lake City adventures. Admire the architecture and the history of the site while you’re there. The National Historic Landmark was completed back in 1866 as the Old Salt Lake City Hall. 

2. See the Utah State Capitol building up close.

Head over to Salt Lake City’s version of Capitol Hill to see the Utah State Capitol’s impressive dome. Choose between a self-guided or docent-led tour if you’d like to see the interior.

The complex grounds are a great place to linger , too. On my last visit, I saw some youths playing frisbee with that big ol’ dome as their backdrop. Don’t miss The Mormon Battalion Monument out front while you’re here.

The looming sculpture recognizes the sacrifices made by Mormon pioneers who served in the U.S. Army during the Mexican-American War.

3. See views of the Utah State Capitol.

The former site of the Anderson Tower Monument offers some of the best views of the city, including a look at the Utah State Capitol from above. This spot also comes with a wacky history.

The Anderson Tower was meant to be a tourist attraction modeled after the medieval towers of Scotland. Entrepreneur Robert R. Anderson thought he could charge for views of the city from the tower he ended up building in 1884, but he failed to think about the tower’s location.

No, it wasn’t leaning . The hilltop views here are awesome with or without a medieval tower on the site. Nobody cared. The tower fell into disrepair and was eventually demolished in 1932. You can see a plaque where it used to stand today.

4. Wander Memory Grove Park.

If you’re here for those steps, you can continue walking from the Anderson Tower Monument until you hit a path that takes you down to the creek below. There’s a great off-leash area at the bottom where you can let your well-behaved pooches explore along the water.

If you go left at the fork at the bottom, you’ll hit several war memorials and monuments with a manmade lake on the other side. The Pagoda is the most scenic, but there were two dudes shooting some kind of shoe ad during our visit and getting in the way of my own photography.

This is definitely one of the most scenic spots in the city, so even if you’re photo plans are stymied, hang back for a bit and enjoy the views from here. You’ll likely need to climb all the way back up from where you came from once you’re done.

5. Tour the McCune Mansion.

The McCune Mansion looks more like a castle than a historic home, but the original owners, Alfred and Elizabeth McCune, didn’t always think so. They wanted a “simple” bungalow when they started work on the home on Capitol Hill.

Rich people are so extra.

Limited guided tours of the mansion are available on select days throughout the month. As they can vary depending on what’s going on with Preservation Utah, visit their website to see whether your trip overlaps with available tour times.

6. Learn about Mormon pioneers at the Pioneer Memorial Museum.

The Pioneer Memorial Museum , also known as the Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum, is a quirky collection of early pioneer history. Take a wander to see the largest collection of artifacts from the early settlers of the Salt Lake Valley, all free of charge.

There’s a lot going on here, but there’s not really an organizational thread as you move your way through. Volunteers offer scavenger hunts for kids (or adults!) who want to keep their eyes peeled for some of the more intriguing objects inside. Try not to miss the Victorian hair art. 

7. Take a self-guided tour of the Marmalade District.

This historic district is named after the fruit trees that were planted here in the earlier part of the 20th century. While the orchards are gone, you’ll notice that many of the streets that run through the neighborhood retained their fruity names.

This is an easy area of the city to explore if you’re already checking out Capitol Hill. My favorite home sits at 355 Quince Street. The stories I’m sure this Gothic beauty could tell!

8. Climb Ensign Peak.

A short but steep trail of about a mile each way offers up one of the best payoffs in the city. It’s dog-friendly as long as the weather is good, but windy at the top no matter when you go. To add to your hike, there are several spur trails that connect and surround Ensign Peak.

There’s some signage along the way that describes why this place is important to the local Mormon population. This is the hill Brigham Young and several of his followers climbed a few days after arriving in the Salt Lake Valley. It basically sold them on the idea of settling here.

Once you see the views, you’ll get it, too.

9. Explore the canyons of the City Creek Natural Area.

Ambitious travelers can connect to the City Creek Natural Area from Memory Grove Park, but that’s a lot if you’ve already been on your feet for a bit. 

We visited on a separate trip out this way to wander the canyon-hugging trails and rocky paths. The main trail is the City Creek Canyon Trail, but if you don’t have time for 6.5 miles roundtrip, choose your own adventure and go as far as you’d like before turning back.

This is one of the city’s more popular hiking areas, so start early or prepare to share the trails with other enthusiastic hikers . Leashed pets are welcome.

10. Hike the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.

The Bonneville Shoreline Trail is over 100 miles of trails that follow what was once an ancient lake. The segments in Salt Lake City climb to mountain vistas and views of the city below. This is a mixed-use trail, so watch for signage as you trek. Some of the trails are for cyclists only. 

The only bummer about this one was all of the unleashed dogs. There was one dog roaming around the thicket without a discernible owner, likely doing his business in said thicket.

We were on a hike with Kimmy, and several of the dogs approached her off-leash. Don’t do this, people, especially when a trail is marked as leashed dogs only. You’ll ruin it for all of the other dog owners following the rules.

11. Find nature’s recliners on the Living Room Lookout Trail.

This short but steep hike rewards hikers with panoramic views of Salt Lake City from stone slabs set up like living room furniture. (I just assume they were set up this way because there’s one that looks like a literal couch.)

It’s just 2.3 miles roundtrip, but you’ll feel the burn on this one as you tackle nearly 1,000 feet of elevation gain over that short distance. This is a very popular trail, so expect to share the trail on sunny days.

Dogs are welcome, but they should be on a leash. That said, 9/10 dogs we ran into were off-leash. While they were friendly, they did approach our own leashed pup every time. If you’re with a dog that doesn’t like that sort of thing, you’ve been warned! People do what they want.

Love Utah hikes and want more of ‘em? Here are a few more popular trails in the area:

• Donut Falls: We didn’t make it out to this one because the trail was covered in several feet of snow during our stay. Once the summer hits, this 3.3-mile hike is packed with people. Start early to get a good view of the unique waterfall.
• Grandeur Peak: See the splendor from the top of Grandeur Peak, a difficult six-mile hike that was just too snow-packed during most of our stay. You’ll get impressive views of the Salt Lake Valley from the top.
• Limekiln Gulch: Hike to a pioneer-era limekiln, a structure used to prep limestone for use, on this one-mile trail. There’s been quite a bit of vandalism to the limekiln over the years, so be kind to this historic structure if you trek that way.

12. Visit Temple Square during the day.

Temple Square is a must on Salt Lake City visits if only to appreciate the lasting influence of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) on this city. Visits are free and tours are self-guided unless you’d like a docent. 

If you’d like a guided tour, you’ll be led around by a missionary from the church. From our interactions with volunteers inside the temple, I did get some vibes that they wanted to give me just a little more info than I was receptive to, so we opted for a self-guided visit.

This is also where you’ll find the Family History Library, a genealogical research facility run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It’s free and open to the public if you’d like to trace some roots. 

This is the largest genealogical library in the world with literally millions of records on hand.

If you’d like to listen in on the Tabernacle Choir rehearsals , you can do so here on Temple Square, at least in the off-season. They’re moved to the Conference Center just north of Temple Square during the summer and winter holidays to accommodate more visitors.)

We didn’t make this happen on any of our trips, but they’re open to the public if you’d like to check out their pipes.

13. Visit Temple Square at night.

Temple Square at night is worth a quick stop. I’ve read that it’s particularly done up at Christmastime, but you’ll get to see it all lit up no matter when you’re here. 

We’ve never felt unsafe in and around Salt Lake City’s downtown, by the way. 

Yes, there appears to be more homelessness in parts of the city since our initial visit, but that’s the norm in bigger cities all over the United States . Just be mindful of your valuables and don’t look perpetually lost and you should be fine.

14. Take a wander in downtown Salt Lake City.

You’ve already seen some of the best Salt Lake City attractions down here if you’ve spent some time in Temple Square. Downtown Salt Lake City is also home to Vivint Arena and the Utah Jazz and the City Creek Center.

Yes, it’s a mall. It’s also a mall with one of the strangest layouts I’ve ever seen. It’s outside. Then it’s inside. Then you cross the tracks. Then you’re inside again. I was just trying to get to an Apple store, folks.

Note: City Creek Center is closed on Sundays, so you’ll need to find a different diversion that day!

15. Admire the architecture at the Salt Lake City Public Library.

You can find your next beach (or mountain) read while you’re here, but the real draw of the Salt Lake City Public Library is the impressive architecture. The five-story library has a curved glass wall along its exterior.

Admire it all on a quick stop or linger at the on-site Hemingway Cafe. They have a menu of light lunch options and snacks if you’d like a nosh.

16. Go on a self-guided mural walk.

Salt Lake City has a great public art scene. A fan favorite is the Legends of Rock near the Clark Planetarium. It’s too big to capture without a panoramic view, but all of the expected rockers are there, including Mick Jagger, Freddie Mercury, Jimi Hendrix, and Janis Joplin.

Calling Our Ancestors by Pioneer Park is another popular one. It depicts a trio of sad-looking kids meant to represent our ancestors. 

I loved the fun one on the other side of the same building, as it was painted to incorporate the surrounding fire escape.

About a quarter mile north of these two above is the SLC Pepper mural. It was apparently painted by the same guy who did the original album cover.

17. See the Beehive House.

This is where Brigham Young lived with one of his 55 wives. No, we did not go in.

It also served as the home of two other presidents of the church,  Lorenzo Snow and Joseph F. Smith.

Fun fact: Joseph F. Smith was the nephew of the Joseph Smith, the founder of the LDS movement.

I’m not against visits inside if you’re curious. Guided tours are free and last about 30 minutes when the home isn’t under renovation. The Lion House next door is also a site of importance to the Mormon church.

This was the family home of Brigham Young, dating back to 1856. You’ll know how it got its name once you see the big cat outside.

Don’t miss the Eagle Gate monument that signals the entrance to the properties and nearby Temple Square. It’s an iconic pioneer monument in these parts.

18. Stroll South Temple Historic District.

This historic district that runs up and down South Temple Street was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. There are over 100 properties included within the district’s boundaries, but a few buildings are standouts as you go for a self-guided tour:

• Utah Governor’s Mansion/Kearns Mansion: Utah governors have lived in this palace of a mansion for two stretches of time: 1937 to 1957 and 1978 until the present day. Tours are offered throughout the year through Preservation Utah .

• Salt Lake Masonic Temple: This imposing building has been on this spot since 1927. Unfortunately, they no longer offer tours of the inside, but you can host your next wedding here if you’d like. 
• Walker-McCarthey Mansion: This impressive property was converted into office space for a while, then converted back into a historic mansion after years of painstaking renovation work. The grand entryway remains.
• Ladies Literary Club Clubhouse: This 1913 property has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1978. There was a burrito truck outside this one when we took our walk, which certainly feels important to mention. 
• Cathedral of the Madeleine: This spectacular church on the National Register of Historic Places serves as the hub for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake City. It isn’t as large as the Salt Lake Temple, but it’s still grand. It’s been here since 1909.

19. Catch a cosmic light show at the Clark Planetarium.

Exhibits inside the Clark Planetarium are free and one of the more family-friendly things to do in Salt Lake City. If you’re looking for things to do in Salt Lake City for couples, check out the events calendar for the Hansen Dome Theatre, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.

We caught a laser light show set to the musical styling of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon . Yes, there were many jokes made by the host about tripping out. We were slightly toasty thanks to a trip to Epic Brewing’s tapless taproom before our date but still had a great time.

I wouldn’t recommend the laser light shows for kids or obviously anyone with an aversion to flashing lights. Avoid if you have vertigo, too.

20. Pay your respects to Lilly E. Gray: Victim of the Beast.

If you’re interested in dark tourism, you may want to visit Salt Lake City Cemetery/Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery. (You’ll see on your maps that the two are connected.) There are a few big names here related to the LDS church, but the more intriguing draw is Lilly E. Gray.

The reason behind that is what you’ll read on her gravestone. Underneath her name, you’ll find “Victim of the Beast 666.” Yes, it’s creepy at first, but it’s quite sad when you learn what the real story is.

Lilly died of natural causes, but she had to live with her eccentric husband Elmer for much of her life. That husband was apparently a bit of a conspiracy theorist who claimed that his wife was a victim of the U.S. government. It’s all very strange. 

To find the grave, follow your map app to the marked location. This applies if you’re following the map I created for you, too. Once you’re at the right set of plots, here’s a more precise location: Lilly’s grave is 10 plots in from 355 N and about 14 rows in from 1200 E. 

It’s a bit raised from the ground, not flat with the earth as you may read elsewhere. I’m only giving you more detail here as it took me two attempts to find this one.

21. Bring your pooch to Lindsey Gardens Park.

This was Kimmy’s favorite place in Salt Lake City, so I had to give it a shout-out. The lines are a little blurry here as far as the off-leash area vs. the public park for human activity, but we didn’t see anyone paying attention to all of that.

If you want to get technical, the off-leash section is where the steps are to ascend the hill. You’ll have fantastic city and mountain views from the top, so it’s worth a visit even if you’re not traveling with your pup.

22. Enjoy the fauna in the Red Butte Garden.

This is a lovely space to walk around, especially if the day is not too hot. If you climb all the way to the top of Prospect Point Terrace, you get a great view of the city below. 

It’s all more impressive when things are blooming, but worth a trip nonetheless. Don’t miss the waterfall and the platform walks past the Rose Garden.

There are all kinds of trails that start here into the Red Butte Canyon Research Natural Area if you’d like to do some hiking. Grab a map or scan the QR code at the ticket desk to see whether there are any trail connections closed for construction.

Note: You may also find yourself on these paths by accident. If your walk is unpaved, then you’re probably in the natural area.

23. Visit somber Donner Hill.

The drive into Emigration Canyon today is a scenic one, but if you were the Donner-Reed Party in 1846, it’d be much more perilous. Visit the marker that shows the ill-fated voyage of these pioneers that served as inspiration for Yellowjackets .

You’ll also learn that Brigham Young’s pioneer party followed the same path a year later with more success. This is a quick stop as it’s just a marker, but the deep dive you’ll take into what happened here later will take up the better part of your evening.

24. Meet the Sphinx at the Gilgal Sculpture Garden.

Looking for weird things to do in Salt Lake City?

It’s a sphinx with Joseph Smith’s face on it. What’s not to love? This free public sculpture garden tucked away from the rest of the city is a quick visit, but it’s a quirky one. Pop in to admire years of work from self-taught stonemason Thomas Child.

Child wanted to provoke questions and curiosity with his passion project, and I’ll go ahead and say he’s achieved that.

25. Stroll around Liberty Park.

This park is gorgeous. We had it tagged for a visit thanks to the Tracy Aviary at the southern end. I’ll get into that in a minute, as the park itself deserves your attention.

If you’re traveling with your pup, this is a great place to take them for a leashed stroll. It’s also home to the Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Arts. This is the only museum in the United States dedicated to displaying state-owned contemporary folk art.

26. Meet the resident birds at the Tracy Aviary. 

Brian doesn’t love all the birds, but I must say he really liked this one. It’s not every day you get to see so many owls in one place. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever seen one out in the wild as that one who hooted around my window in my 20s never showed himself.

Don’t miss out on the indoor exhibits, especially if you’re visiting on a cooler day. Many of the birds don’t like chilly weather, so they escape indoors to hop around in there.

27. Bring the kids to the This Is the Place Heritage Park.

I’m going to break up all of the different things to do in the larger park, but if you’re traveling with kids, you’ll want tickets to the paid section of the park. It’s a historic village with costumed docents and demos from life during pioneer times.

During my visit, there was a blacksmith demonstration and a petting zoo full of baby animals, including baby goats. They also had kids doing some hard labor and pulling push carts. 

It’s all a little bit cheesy for adults, but very kid-friendly. Know that if you’re here on a weekday, expect a field trip or two. 

If you want to walk the park, you’ll get plenty of steps in. There’s also a train that rides around to various attractions within the park and plays some narration.

I’m a sucker for dramatic sculptures, so the best part for me was the series of sculptures depicting what the pioneers went through in settling this land. Catch this section starting at the Pioneer Children Memorial. 

There is a Native American village on the outskirts of the park, but it felt quite generic. The focus of the park is definitely on the Mormon pioneers. I’ll just leave that there.

28. See the views from the This is the Place Monument.

This historic monument is at the front entrance of the aptly named This is the Place Heritage Park that I described to you above. I’m separating this one out because you don’t need to visit the historic village if you only want to see the monument. 

The monument marks the spot where Mormon pioneers decided that naturally, this was the place. The phrase itself comes from Brigham Young. When he arrived in the Salt Lake Valley, he was apparently feeling it so hard that he declared, “This is the place.”

There’s a second, new monument nearby before you get to the historic village that tells the story of three Black pioneers. One of those includes Green Flake, a man who joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a slave on the promise of freedom from Brigham Young.

It’s unknown whether it was nationwide emancipation or the church that earned him free man status, but he’s honored here for his contributions as one of the first Mormon pioneers. 

It’s important to note here that Mormons have a very complicated relationship with race. Shortly after newly converted Mormons of color began arriving in Utah, the state began excluding Black men from the priesthood and restricting their access to temple services.

This would go on until 1978.

You won’t read about that here, so it all feels quite whitewashed. 

29. Walk the Pony Express National Historic Trail.

This monument and easy trail is also part of the This is the Place Heritage Park, but you don’t need to pay admission to see this, either.

The Pony Express monument is below the large Mormon Battalion Monument you’ll likely see first. Walk down the gravel trail to see a replica of a Pony Express station that was made for the 2002 Winter Olympics.

You’ll likely see horses across the street for a trail rides company. It all felt very on the nose.

30. Feel old on the University of Utah campus.

You can wander through the well-manicured grounds on your way to the next spot below, but the University of Utah has a lovely campus even if you’re not using it as a thoroughfare. This is a dry campus, so don’t expect things to get too wild. 

Those coeds have access to a great food scene, too. If you’re feeling romantic, Osteria Amore is just north of the stadium I’ll get into next.

31. Go down memory lane at the Olympic and Paralympic Cauldron Plaza.

Technically, you’re still on the University of Utah campus here. The plaza is just outside ​​of Rice–Eccles Stadium, the college football stadium. 

The cauldron that held the Olympic torch of the 2002 Olympic Winter Games is the main event here, but you should check out the informational plaques that surround the spot before you go. Don’t miss the cute photo op where you get to decide how you’d medal in your chosen event.

32. Check out the art at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts.

This is your last stop on the University of Utah campus. The Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UFMA) has a little of everything, from rotating exhibits depicting hot dog bridges and the American West to permanent collections of Chinese ceramics and ancient funerary objects.

I liked their large hall best, as it was covered in colorful murals inspired by the pandemic. These are messages of hope and community, not despair, something we could all use a little more of these days.

33. Work on your swing at Bad Caddy Golf.

If it’s too chilly to hit the links, you can imagine yourself in Pebble Beach at Bad Caddy Golf . Play all of your favorite courses (or watch your partner do so in my case) on their golf simulators.

You can play other sports, too, like soccer and whatever soccer golf is. Book in blocks of time with an online reservation. They have a full food and drink menu, too, but we can’t vouch for that beyond our soft drinks.

34. Hit the links at a real golf course.

If the weather’s right, you may just want to spend an afternoon at a real golf course. Brian can vouch for the Bonneville Golf Course , a well-run course with scenic views all the way. He was particularly impressed by the 18th hole. 

Glendale Golf Course was another course he tested out for the good of this blog and the strength of our marriage. (It’s pretty much the only time we’re apart these days!) It’s a decent backup, just not as good as Bonneville.

If you’re here in the summer months, the Mountain Dell Golf Course seems to be most impressive. We just missed the window on that one.

35. Find your favorite roundabout.

OK, there’s really only one roundabout you need to bother with thanks to the giant blue whale in the middle. That’s Out of the Blue , a full-size sculpture of a humpback whale by sculptor Stephen Kessler.

Per the artist, it’s meant as a symbol of the 9th and 9th neighborhood as being “out of the blue” in terms of the unexpected sense of belonging people feel here. That’s adorable, right? 

You can circle the roundabout for a view of this one or take a walk around 9th and 9th for a view from your feet. This is one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city for that peak walkability. 

36. See a pyramid without leaving the city.

The Summum Pyramid is zoned as a winery, but it actually operates as a church. You’ll know you’re there when you see the golden pyramid.

I didn’t go inside as it was closed that day, and frankly, I was a little bit squeamish. While they welcome visitors with open arms, their practices lean Egyptian in more ways than the shape of their meditation hall. It includes modern mummification.

This is just one of those weird things to see in Salt Lake City and then keep on moving along in my opinion. I just want to share all of the things with you, friends.

37. Attend the Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point.

I’ll get into all of the best day trips from Salt Lake City shortly, but this very fun event is worth pointing out if you happen to be in town in the spring months. 

Thanksgiving Point is a complex that includes a farm, gardens, and several museums to fill up the better part of an afternoon. It’s just a half-hour south of Salt Lake City in Lehi, so I’ll call it more of an add-on to your Salt Lake City trip vs. a full day trip. 

If you visit in the spring as we did, you can attend the annual Tulip Festival. Buy tickets ahead of time as this is a very popular event. We timed our tickets for the very start of May, and over half of the bulbs were popping, but that was after a longer winter than usual.

Ashton Gardens is worth a trip regardless, especially if you’re traveling with the family. There were loads of kids in the gardens smelling the flowers and galavanting around. It’s a beautiful palace.

38. See the Great Salt Lake.

I’ve shared a lot of stuff to do in Salt Lake City with you, but there’s a lake nearby of some importance that you should consider adding to your itinerary if you have the time.

I’ve been a few times now from a few different approaches, and every section of the lake is a little different. It’s just a half-hour drive, by the way.

Antelope Island State Park is known as the best spot to get into the water and test the floating theory. If you’re there in the summer as we were, though, you’ll have to contend with swarms of biting gnats that don’t really vibe with fun beach times.

You’ll also likely encounter brine shrimp and brine flies. Kudos to all of ’em for surviving in these environments.

We loved the approach from the Spiral Jetty. You can walk right out to the shores from the impressive rock art on the sand. You won’t have access to a swimming beach here, but the scenery is fantastic.

There are a variety of guided tours that take you out there, too. Check out a few highly-rated options:

39. Go on more Salt Lake City day trips.

Salt Lake City is such a great base for road trips . While I won’t include every single day trip possible as a way to cheat my way to a longer list of things to do in SLC, I can point you to my guide on the top day trips from Salt Lake City .

My favorites were Park City and its Utah Olympic Park, the Bonneville Salt Flats , and our trip to Big Cottonwood Canyon, but we did a lot of exploring while we were in town!

Where to Eat in Salt Lake City

Looking for fun things to do in Salt Lake City for couples? Eating comes to mind when I’m planning date nights. Salt Lake City is a delicious place to be. You’ll find a little bit of everything here, including one of the best German food scenes in the country.

I’ll include options for beer and cocktails around Salt Lake City, too, as many of the best drinks here come with a snack. That’s by design, by the way. Some breweries operate as restaurants rather than just bars, so you have to purchase food with your drinks.

Twist my arm, why don’t you?

40. Start with Salt Lake City’s best coffee.

We were within walking distance from The Avenues location of Publik Coffee Roasters during our stay, so that was our top pick for fresh brews. They’ll grind it up fresh for you, too, if you’re here for a longer stay, and educate you about semi-washed and washed beans. 

It’s a fantastic place to linger, too, if you need a little nosh. 

Interested in a little coffee crawl? Nostalgia Cafe is another local favorite with a nice selection of pastries.

41. Eat a delicious Salt Lake City brunch.

I usually skip breakfast when I’m staying somewhere long-term, but I’ll make exceptions for a delicious, leisurely brunch. Salt Lake City has lots of options to get your weekend (or weekday) brunch fix:

• Eggs in the City : This one operates out of an old gas station, but the food is more elevated than its location suggests. I had a Reuben Eggs Benedict for the very first time at this place with zero regrets. 
• Pig and a Jelly Jar : You’re at this Southern-inspired favorite for the chicken and waffles. There’s a location in Ogden, too, if you’re day-tripping to one of the ski areas out that way. 
• Sweet Lake Biscuits & Limeade : I didn’t know I needed biscuits and limeade as a combo, but here we are. I need it and want more of it. They have a full menu of sandwiches and salads, but you’ll want something on a biscuit and that limeade.

42. Indulge in the best donuts in Salt Lake City.

I’ve told you all about brunch, but sometimes you just need a little sweet treat. We had to visit Banbury Cross Donuts twice to get our little paws on some of their famous blueberry cake donuts. The first time around, we rolled in all entitled around 12:30 expecting a taste.

Nope. We learned and returned by 8:45am on a Monday. Success.

Folks, these are some of the best blueberry donuts in the country, and I’ve probably tried dozens. They’re big, frosted, and full of blueberry flavor.

If you miss the boat on your first visit, too, put that sad face away and try something else. Their strawberry-frosted and old-fashioned maple donuts are both delights.

If you must know whether we also stopped by on our way out of town, yes we did. We grabbed a few of their delectable donut holes while we were at it.

43. Eat at a historic diner.

Ruth’s Diner has been around in some form since 1930. While the trolley car eatery’s namesake started slinging burgers for politicians and “working women” downtown, Ruth moved the joint to its current location in Emigration Canyon by 1949.

It’s been here ever since, and it’s super popular on weekend mornings for diner-style breakfasts. 

If you love yourself an early bird dinner, though, you’ll likely walk right in. We housed a pair of burgers, an enormous helping of pasta salad, and their mile-high biscuits with room for nothing else. The food is great with scenery to match, and homages to Ruth are all over the place.

44. Lunch at one of Salt Lake City’s best delis.

While it doesn’t compete with cities in the Midwest, Salt Lake City has a pretty big German immigrant population compared to other Western states. The Mormon thing was a big driver for Germans converting to that faith, but others came to find a better life.

A big chunk of that was German-born Jews who wanted to start businesses in and around Salt Lake City.

For a taste of Salt Lake City’s German scene, head on over to bustling Siegfried’s Delicatessen . This place is always busy at lunchtime and it’s for good reason. Those tasty Reuben sandwiches won’t eat themselves.

The sides lean German. That means red cabbage and spaetzle with gravy and warm potato salad. An attached deli sells all kinds of packaged snacks, too. I couldn’t leave without a sample of European wafers and hard candies because I’m a Polish old lady and proud of it.

Love a good deli? Caputo’s Market & Deli , an Italian market, and Feldman’s Deli , a classic Jewish deli, are also well-regarded around town.

45. Try all 11 herbs and spices at the first KFC.

Polish people love KFC. I grew up dipping those biscuits in my mashed potatoes and gravy. It’s a thing.

When I learned that Salt Lake City is widely considered the home of the very first KFC, you know I had to go. 

Fun fact: Colonel Sanders is buried at Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville, Kentucky. Muhammad Ali is there, too. If you visit the colonel’s grave, expect to find not flowers but packets of dipping sauce in honor of his memory.

Here’s the story: Colonel Harland Sanders was making chicken for a while before the idea of Kentucky Fried Chicken took off. He just wasn’t getting anywhere with his proprietary recipe until he franchised those 11 herbs and spices to Pete Harman, a Salt Lake City businessman. 

Harman was already the owner of the Harman Café, but a good fried chicken was his holy grail. Once he bought a chunk of the recipe rights from the colonel, he was free to start selling it out of his cafe. 

That moniker wasn’t his idea, by the way. A sign painter named Rodney Anderson who worked for Harman had the light bulb moment while they were spit-balling ideas. They agreed that “Kentucky fried” would sell better than “Southern fried,” and they were right.

The new eatery became a commercial success and the start of what would become one of the most well-known fast-food franchises on the planet. While the original cafe has since been torn down, a new KFC was built on the same spot at 3890 State Street.

There are all kinds of memorabilia inside, including one of the colonel’s suits and a briefcase. As far as the food, you know exactly what you’re going to get. The recipe hasn’t changed since the two men met to take over chicken back in 1952.

46. Eat the best lobster roll outside of New England.

Freshie’s Lobster Co. serves up award-winning lobster rolls and other lobster-focused delights that have beat out similar eats out in New England. I’m not making this up. 

New Hampshire native Lorin Smaha has won competitions with her rolls out in Portland, Maine, so you know these are legit. The lobster promise here is “from shore to door in 24.” The lobsters are caught, cooked, and shelled in Maine before getting packaged for delivery in Salt Lake City.

Yes, lobster rolls are inherently expensive. They’re not any cheaper here, and you’ll likely wonder to yourself, “I could eat 12 of these. Should I sell an organ to do so?” You can taste the quality here. If they have crab rolls on special when you visit, you should try one of those, too.

47. Go nuts at the Western Nut Company.

I can’t be trusted around gourmet nuts and other snacks, so I’m shocked that we left this place with only four bags of treats. They had lemon cream-covered almonds for Pete’s sake. 

Everything in here is reasonably priced for what you’re getting, and I would know. I’m buying nuts like, all the time.

48. Eat your way through Salt Lake City Chinatown.

Sadly, we found Salt Lake City Chinatown pretty late in our eating adventures around Salt Lake City. After a quick lunch there, we immediately agreed that we’d be here weekly to try all of the delights in this part of town. 

Our pick was Chick Queen , a casual spot that specializes in Korean fried chicken wings. There were no regrets. We also ordered a giant fried chicken sandwich, but the magic was in their honey garlic wings.

If you’re here for a while and looking to make some Asian food of your own, stop by the Chinatown Supermarket. I did a walk-through of the place just to see its seafood section, and definitely had some regrets about not getting out there sooner. 

49. Sample pours at the best breweries in Salt Lake City.

Does Salt Lake City have beer? Yes, Salt Lake City has beer. There are state requirements around both beer strength and service across Utah which may take some getting used to, but the beer scene remains a vibrant one.

Here’s the lowdown: If you’re at a brewery only, you must be 21 or over to go inside. Draft beers are only available at 5% ABV or below. If you want something stronger, you’ll have to buy a bottle or can of beer, unless you’re at Epic. (I’ll get into that one below.)

If you’re at a brewery that serves food, kids are allowed inside but you have to order food with your beer. I’m not sure any of this matters much for things like DUIs and alcohol-related deaths as those have been going down countrywide, but it is what it is.

Here are the breweries we tried while in Salt Lake City: 

• Bewilder Brewing Co. : This buzzy brewery offers readymade samplers and heavier canned pours like their highly-rated Scotch ale if that’s what you’re after. There’s a food menu, too, but they’re a brewery first. There’s no forced eating here!
• Epic Brewing Company : This is a tapless taproom, meaning they pour full-strength beers out of bottles only. We had quite a good time here sampling tasters of barrel-aged beers, sours, and stouts. The bartender’s a character, too, in the best way.

• Fisher Brewing Company : This was our last stop on our tour of Salt Lake City, and I’m glad we made it out for the history. This one first opened in the late 1800s. Their draft porter was my fave, but they also have high-ABV canned options.
• RoHa Brewing Project : This highly-rated brewery boasts a long list of draft beers and canned options. I got a draft blood orange sour that was pretty yummy. The $5 daily grilled cheese and chips special was also quite tempting as a second lunch.
• Squatters Pub Brewery : This classic option boasts a solid menu of both draft and higher-point canned options like their popular Devastator Double Bock. Pair that with their hot tots as a lil’ snack and you’ll have a pretty great afternoon. 
• Uinta Brewing : Uinta was our very first brewery in Salt Lake City ever before the beer laws changed for the better. We still had a great experience taste-testing some of their pours. Their Mango Golden Spike is a great wheat ale to kick things off.

This isn’t even the full list of every spot we wanted to try during our visit. Emigration Brewing Co. was an almost visit, but they require a food purchase with your beer. Their location in Emigration Canyon is stunning, but we had just eaten at Ruth’s next door so had no room for even a snack.

50. Take a trip out to Bohemian Brewery.

I didn’t want to include this one in the list above as it’s outside Salt Lake City proper in Midvale. It’s a short enough drive at about 25 minutes that I’ll allow it here, especially if you love German lagers, chalet ambiance, and giant sausages.

The beers here are fine. You’ll get the expected light options and a few “strong” beers if you’re feeling feisty. The food is great. We definitely ordered too much. 

There was a jumbo pretzel with beer cheese, their pierogi sampler, potato pancakes, and their bratwurst plate with mashed potatoes and creamy sauerkraut. The pierogi were just OK — as a Pole I tend to be super picky — but everything else was awesome.

51. Try out the best Salt Lake City cocktails. 

Yes, there are rules around cocktail consumption, too, but you tend not to notice them as much in the finished product. 

Any cocktails you consume in Utah can’t have more than 2.5 ounces of total spirits. That includes no more than 1.5 ounces of primary liquor — you’ll see bartenders pouring with little monitoring caps on their bottles — and any secondary liqueurs. 

Now that that’s out of the way, let’s start the party at Salt Lake City’s best spots for yummy cocktails and some of the best things to do in Salt Lake City at night:

• Bar X : This one is next door to Beer Bar, so if you’d rather have cocktails over sausages and beer, just mosey on over. The Prohibition-era bar is also co-owned by Ty Burrell of Modern Family fame, so it has that going for it.
• The Pearl : You can focus on the tasty Vietnamese street food, but their craft cocktail game is just as strong. Come for brunch if you want to experience a breakfast bahn mi.
• Post Office Place : This spot serves up some fantastic small plates, but if you’re here to drink, it’s known for its Japanese whisky cocktails. Not into whiskey? I feel you. Try their Miso Yer’Mommy, a rum-forward cocktail with grilled pineapple.

52. Go casual with these eateries.

Casual doesn’t mean your meal won’t be any less delicious. It just means come as you are, without the need for reservations.

• Beer Bar : This one is also co-owned by Ty Burrell, so it was obviously a priority stop on our return to Salt Lake City. Yes, there’s lots of beer here, but the food menu is stellar, too. Their apple sage veggie sausage is perfect topped with sweet peppers.
• Laziz Kitchen : This Lebanese eatery has three locations. The downtown Salt Lake City location may be most convenient for you, but I got my takeout in Midvale. I made two full meals out of their falafel wrap with a side of grape leaves.
• Mahidir Ethiopian Restaurant : This family-run eatery has the notable distinction of being Utah’s first Ethiopian restaurant. That’s a huge deal that should match a huge appetite. Portions are generous, budget-friendly, and delicious.

• Mumbai House : This Indian restaurant has speedy service and all of the classics at budget-friendly prices. I have to thank them for introducing me to buttered naan, too. I’ve been doing it wrong!
• R&R Barbecue : Your diet will have to start tomorrow if you want to indulge in this award-winning barbecue. We were traveling with friends for our trip here and all shared platters of multiple meats. This is the way.

53. Treat yourself at Salt Lake City’s best restaurants.

OK, so “best” is very subjective, but I’m going for beyond casual dining here. These are special occasion places known for showcasing the best of Salt Lake City’s restaurant scene: 

• The Copper Onion : You can’t have a list of Salt Lake City restaurants without The Copper Onion. Come to the brasserie for brunch, lunch, or dinner and get to know why this one has sustained the buzz. Reservations are recommended .
• Pago : There are two locations of this “wild to table” favorite. One is in downtown Salt Lake City, and the other is in one of my favorite neighborhoods at 9th & 9th. You’ll get a delicious experience either way. Reservations are recommended .
• Valter’s Osteria : I’ll get into the expected pizza spots in a minute, but if you want some high-quality Italian beyond wood-fired pies, this is it. Reservations are available by calling 801-521-4563.

54. Don’t forget about Salt Lake City’s best pizza.

Pizza usually gets its own category in my lists. That’s especially if we’re staying for a full month. You know we can’t stop at just one. Here are our favorites:

• Pizza Nono : This neighborhood pizzeria has a rotating menu of pies inspired by life in Utah . I highly recommend the Beehive with pickled jalapenos, Calabrese salami, and honey for some sweet and spice.
• Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana : This Western chain has a few locations in California and Nevada, but that doesn’t make it any less delicious. Enjoy a variety of Neapolitan pizzas that could very well transport you to Napoli. 
• Slackwater : If you love unique toppings, this Utah chain is for you. I had their spring special with fig and ricotta. Brian ordered the Cuban Pizza Crisis. It definitely had those Cuban vibes, but it also tasted like a hot dog somehow in the best way.

Is that not enough for you? Nomad East , Snowmobile Pizza , and Bricks Corner are all on our list for next time.

55. Go all in on pierogi pizza.

Pierogi pizza deserves a category of its pizza when we’re talking about where to eat in Salt Lake City. Rise by Good Day is a catering business, Polish bakery, and a modest eat-in spot for anyone who loves pizza but also pierogi.

If you love Polish food or are of Polish descent as I am, you’ll be happy to hear that the food here is legit. Well, pierogi pizza isn’t a thing in the Motherland , but zapiekanki are. That’s French bread pizza for the uninitiated.

Those with a hankering for pickled herring, a variety of Polish teas and condiments, and paczki will find it all here. We ate WELL at this place. They let us know they’d be moving to West Jordan the following year, but thankfully that’s just a short drive from Salt Lake City proper.

56. Leave room for dessert.

Salt Lake City has a sweet tooth, it seems. Here are a few faves if you want a little something sweet: 

• The Dodo Restaurant : You can certainly come here for dinner, but the eatery is known in these parts for its desserts. There are 12 different desserts offered daily, but expect a variety of pies to make up at least half of that list.
• Mrs. Backer’s Pastry Shop : If you’re near The Avenues during your Salt Lake City stay, you’ll likely see this one a mile away. I’m rhyming now, apparently, but the whimsy of this place inspires me. Enjoy a variety of beautiful cakes and pastries.
• RubySnap : Once you try a Judy cookie with that perfect touch of orange zest, you’ll get why Ruby’s all, “You know you want my cookies.” No, really. It says that on the door. Buy them in bulk to save a bit per cookie and have bulk cookies.

More Places to Visit in Salt Lake City

We spent a full month in Salt Lake City and we still didn’t tick everything off the list. Here are a few more Salt Lake City things to do for next time:

• Ride one of the Salt Lake Trolley Tours for more a guided experience in the city.
• If you’re looking for fun things to do in Salt Lake City for families, visit Hogle Zoo. I love a good zoo but skipped this one because of the 14 school buses in the lot. 
• Visit the dinos at the Natural History Museum of Utah . Book tickets ahead of time for this one, as it’s a popular field trip stop for the kiddos. 
• Book a private afternoon tea party at the Ellerbeck B&B Carriage House .
• Feel an adrenaline rush at the Jordan River Off-Highway Vehicle State Recreation Area . Just make sure to register your bikes if you’re game.
• See a show about Mormons at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, once the Hotel Utah.
• Treat yourself to a classy evening courtesy of the Utah Symphony .
• Love the idea of an evening of arts and culture? Take in a show at the Eccles Theater .

Salt Lake City FAQs

What is salt lake city, utah, known for.

Salt Lake City, Utah, is known for its winter sports scene and access to outdoor adventuring. You’re surrounding by the Wasatch Mountain Range here, a stretch of the Rocky Mountains , so the views are spectacular.  

This city in the Salt Lake Valley is also home to the largest population of Mormons in the United States, so you’ll see quite a bit of that influence in the city’s historical and cultural offerings.

What can you do in Salt Lake City for a couple hours?

You can do quite a bit in Salt Lake City for a couple hours. Visit downtown Salt Lake City and Temple Square, walk the hills around the Utah State Capitol, or hike to the best views in the city at Ensign Peak.

What is the Salt Lake Connect Pass?

The Salt Lake Connect Pass is an attractions pass that covers 18 different sites in and around Salt Lake City. If you’re in town for multiple days, it may make sense to pick one up to save some money on regular-priced admission.

Take a look at the list of what’s covered under the pass before picking one up, especially if you already know what you’d like to prioritize on your trip.

How many days do you need to explore Salt Lake City?

You need at least a full day to explore Salt Lake City. With two days or more, you can incorporate short drives out of the city to places like the Great Salt Lake.

Do I need a car visiting Salt Lake City?

You don’t need a car visiting Salt Lake City, but it will make your travel much more efficient. If you don’t want to drive, you’ll need to rely on the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) and their network of buses and TRAX light rail service.

With a car, you can explore adventures further afield, as Salt Lake City is a great base for day trips. Book car rentals ahead of time using a site like Hotwire or Priceline .

Where to Stay in Salt Lake City

We spent a full month in Salt Lake City at a short-term rental on our most recent trip, but I know that’s a luxury for most.

On our first quick trip there, we stayed at the Holiday Inn Express Salt Lake City Downtown . It’s a short walk from Temple Square, so the location is great if you’re here for the weekend. The evo Hotel is a more modern hotel that is basically next door to Slackwater, one of my favorite pizza places, so that’s 100 points in my book.

Use the map below for more options on Salt Lake City hotels and apartments:

Why should I visit Salt Lake City?

You should visit for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and unique food scene. If you visit in the winter months, you’re never far from world-class skiing that tops many travelers’ lists of favorite Salt Lake City tourist attractions.

The city is also a great hub for day trips and things to do around Salt Lake City, like the Great Salt Lake. We spent a full month there and I still know I’ll be back!

Ready for Salt Lake City?

Your Flight:  I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, you should use   Skyscanner . It’s a great tool for when you’re more flexible, too, as it allows you to compare travel based on length of travel, departure date, etc.

Budget flights into Salt Lake City International Airport are quite common, especially if you’re able to watch flights for a bit. It’s a gateway not only for city escapes but Utah road trips to Moab and Bryce Canyon .

For adventurous folks who travel on the reg, I also subscribe to  Going , formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights. You’ll get cheap flight deals from your home base straight to your inbox.

Your Accommodations:  I usually use  Booking.com  and  Hotels.com   for our hotel needs. Both offer loyalty programs and now offer listings that are more of the home or condo rental variety, which is great.  Vrbo   is my preferred Airbnb alternative. 

Scroll up for my recommendations for where to stay while in Salt Lake City!

Seeking even more wallet-friendly accommodations? Try   Hostelworld . Their picks are heavily vetted and reviewed to offer you a safe experience on a budget.

Etc.:  For general travel goodies, visit my   Favorite Things  page. For more information on planning your travel, visit my   Travel Tools  page. It’s heavy on the text but super helpful for overall trip planning!

Love this guide to the top things to do in Salt Lake City? Pin me!

Want to stay in Utah for a while? Check out these posts:

• A Hiking Guide for Zion National Park
• Tips for Hiking The Narrows at Zion
• A Guide to Capitol Reef National Park
• Top Hikes at Arches National Park
• Visiting Canyonlands National Park

Ready to see more?

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Agnes Groonwald

25 Best Things To Do in Salt Lake City, Utah: Our Recommendations

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: April 11, 2024

The capital of Utah is one of the most beautifully located cities in the USA. Salt Lake City sits between the Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountain Range; it’s a jackpot when it comes to finding things to do.

The high season runs from December until March, when you’ll find all the winter activities and ski-related things to do. The second high season is the height of summer, when road trips around Utah become super-popular, and people visit its lakes for water activities in the sun. April until June and September until November are the shoulder seasons, when you’ll find all of these attractions much quieter.

Many people use Salt Lake City as a bit of a launchpad, flying into the city and then rushing straight off to Utah’s national parks and iconic hiking trails. But we’ll show you why this city is worth sticking around in. There’s so much to do in Utah, and this guide will cover the ultimate 25 things to do in Utah when you visit.

Using a rental bike or public transport, you can easily get around Salt Lake City to see these attractions. Alternatively, you can rent a car to take plenty of day trips and visit Great Salt Lake regularly.

In this guide, we’ll cover the most amazing things to do in Salt Lake City. But first, let’s briefly summarize the essentials for anyone in a rush.

Best of Salt Lake City: Quick Guide

• Must See: Big Cottonwood Canyon, Great Salt Lake, Temple Square, Red Butte Garden, and the Capitol Building.
• Where to Stay: Salt Lake Plaza Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western ($), The Little America Hotel ($$), and Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown ($$$)
• Fun To Do: Go skiing, swim in the lake, visit the Bonneville Salt Flats, go zip lining, and grab a coffee to enjoy in the ‘park city’ green spaces.
• Day Trips: Bonneville Salt Flats, Bryce National Park, Provo, and Fifth Water Hot Springs.
• Must try Foods: Utah scones, fry sauce, and a Crown Burger.

Best Things To Do in Salt Lake City

We love Salt Lake City and are excited to share our top 25 things to do with you. We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again; there are just so many things to do in Salt Lake City. Without further ado, these are our top 25 picks for you.

1. Liberty Park

Salt Lake City has a beautiful selection of parks and green spaces. This park is the oldest and second largest in the city, spanning 80 acres. It’s the perfect spot for a morning stroll with coffee or somewhere to spend an hour or two in the late afternoon under a tree with a book.

There’s a massive lake where you can rent out paddle boats, miles of manicured trails, playgrounds, and a splash pad for kids. The park is really serene. It’s an excellent spot for inner-city green space and a convenient connection with nature.

The park also has Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens, but we’ll cover that as a standalone attraction later. It’s a paid zoo in the park’s center, sectioned off with an entrance fee of $13. The rest of Liberty Park is unfenced and free to enjoy. It’s a fantastic spot to unwind.

• Insider Tip: Remember to visit the nearby Chase Home Museum.
• Practical Information: Free to enter and open daily from 8 am until 11 pm.

2. Great Salt Lake

Everybody knows the Great Salt Lake. It’s the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi and the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere— impressive titles. The lake is popular for its gorgeous views and is a hotspot for bird watchers, attracting thousands of migratory birds. 

You can visit attractions on the lake like the Spiral Jetty, viewpoints in Great Salt Lake State Park, or beaches like Pelican Beach. It’s beautiful to walk around and admire,  especially at sunset , around the pink water area of the lake. Equally, in hot weather, you can swim – just be mindful of irritation from the high salt levels.

Visiting this beautiful lake is a definite bucket list activity. Depending on where you go, it only takes 20 minutes or so by car to reach the lake’s shores. It’s worth renting a car for and is one of the most convenient day trips from the city.

Insider Tip: If you decide to swim, keep long hair out of the water, and be aware that the salt levels can damage your swimming costumes.

3. Antelope Island State Park

While talking about Great Salt Lake, we’ve got to mention Antelope Island State Park. This protected bit of shoreside peninsula juts into the lake. The beautiful peninsula is full of serene beaches with miles upon miles of hiking opportunities and horseback riding tours.

Best of all, though, are its free-roaming bison herds. You can spot the majestic animals all over the state park. There are also a handful of antelopes, hence the Antelope Island area’s name.

If you want to see the lake and embrace some gorgeous wildlife all at once, visiting Antelope Island State Park is the best. It gets our vote for its wildlife opportunities and beautiful location on the lake, with access to many beaches and trails like the hike to Frary Peak.

Insider Tip: Hike Buffalo Point Trailhead to see lots of different wildlife. 

4. Wheeler Historic Farm

Wheeler Historic Farm is a fascinating working farm offering immersive exhibits and experiences to guests. It’s family-friendly and located just outside of downtown Salt Lake City. If you’re traveling to Salt Lake City with kids, we heartily recommend it.

Kids can enjoy wagon rides, meeting animals, and a vast playground. Adults will love the time capsule-like experience, with historical exhibits, the farmers market, and seasonal events like pumpkin days. You can also tour the farmhouse on select days.

Utah has a lot of rural culture and history, so it’s interesting to learn about this and convenient given how close it is to the center. This preservation of rural heritage and farming communities is what gives it our vote.

• Insider Tip: Reserve a farmhouse tour for an extra memorable experience.
• Practical Information: It is open every day during daylight hours, with small fees of a few dollars depending on what activities you choose while there (milking cows, etc).

5. Red Iguana

You can’t visit Salt Lake City and not dine at Red Iguana. This Mexican restaurant offers delicious authentic Mexican cuisine. You can sample everything from chile verde to fajitas, mole, and carnitas. And that’s without factoring in their amazing beverage menu, which includes some seriously tasty margaritas. 

Red Iguana is family-run and a total favorite on the dining scene in Salt Lake City. We assume you’ll treat yourself to at least one meal, even if you are self-catered. And Red Iguana is the perfect place to do so.

The restaurant is located just a 30-minute walk from the downtown area or 20 minutes by the Green Line on the light rail.

• Insider Tip: Organize a non-driving method of transport so you can sample the cocktails.
• Practical Information: It is open from 11 am until 9 pm Sunday through Thursday and until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

6. Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens

Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens is the small zoo we mentioned earlier in Liberty Park. Rather than being a traditional zoo—we generally do not endorse zoos at all—it only hosts birds, including flamingos, toucans, and vultures. It has plenty of educational programs and learning opportunities.

It’s an educational pick for those traveling with children or just an interesting day out for adults. The developed gardens are also beautiful and easily one of the most popular attractions in the city. It isn’t the largest botanical garden you’ll ever see; instead, what makes it special is the effort in its small areas, like the beauty in its rainforest biodome.

This attraction is centrally located just a short walk from the city center, and it’s a part indoor and part outdoor space, perfect for a hot or wet day.

• Insider Tip: Watch out for the beautiful love birds.
• Practical Information: Open from 9 am until 5 pm at $13 per ticket.

7. Bonneville Salt Flats

Have you heard of the salt flats in Bolivia? Salt flats are fascinating remnants of lakes that have dried up and left patterned salt layers behind. In dry weather, you can spot the salt patterns, which turn into a mirror-like surface in wet weather. Sound familiar? Well, Bonneville Salt Flats are Utah’s answer to Bolivia’s Salar De Uyuni.

Bonneville Salt Flats were formed when Lake Bonneville dried up, and now, they look almost like another planet. The white floor looks tiled thanks to the salt pattern. Bonneville Salt Flats are 1.5 hours away from Salt Lake City by car. It is well worth the rental, and you’ll pass Great Salt Lake State Park.

Insider Tip: Remember to research the salt flats beforehand; they’ve been the site of many world land-speed record runs.

8. Ensign Peak

Nothing is more satisfying than a summit hike. Ensign Peak is a small mountain just north of the city center, marked by a monument and sweeping views over the Salt Lake Valley. It’s a stunning place to gain a new vantage point over the city and that sense of achievement.

The summit trail is well-marked and only around a mile out and back. It’s really easy to navigate, so it’s our top recommendation for a scenic sunrise or sunset hike. You won’t struggle to navigate with a head torch. The trailhead is on Ensign Vista Drive, just a 10-minute drive or 40-minute bus ride and walk from the city center.

Insider Tip: Bring a head torch if you hike it for sunrise or sunset.

9. Lake Blanche

Lake Blanche is a gorgeous little place in the shadow of Sundial Peak and Salt Lake City’s eastern mountain range. It only takes around 30 minutes to drive there, making it an ideal half-day trip from the city center to embrace some natural beauty.

The Lake Blanche trail is 7 miles out-and-back, with striking water views and the dramatic vision of mountain peaks in the backdrop. It’s fairly suitable as a year-round trail, although it’s much more enjoyable and accessible from spring to fall.

You start the trail from Mill B South Fork Trailhead off Big Cottonwood Canyon Road. It’s a breeze to find. Bring a packed lunch and plenty of refreshments, though, as it takes roughly 5 hours to complete.

Insider Tip: Keep your eyes out for moose.

10. Big Cottonwood Canyon

You don’t need to go far for natural beauty in Salt Lake City. Big Cottonwood Canyon is just a 20-minute drive or an hour by light rail and bus. The beautiful canyon stretches 15 miles and offers some of the region’s best hiking, biking, and rock climbing. We’d suggest driving it purely so you can enjoy its scenic drive on Cottonwood Canyon Road.

You can hike to places like Lake Mary, Willow Fork Beaver Pond, and Silver Lake. There’s also the Wasatch Wildflower Festival every July.

We’d suggest Big Cottonwood Canyon if you want an area where you can organize your own activities and adventures. Visiting Big Cottonwood Canyon is free and gives you plenty of independence to choose anything from biking trails to climbing experiences.

Insider Tip: Silver Fork Lodge is a cool place to have brunch at Big Cottonwood Canyon.

11. Temple Square

Temple Square is palatial-looking, with light grey rock and dramatic-looking turrets. It’s the church of the Latter Day Saints, a religion that branches off from Christianity with its own interpretation of the bible and teachings of Jesus Christ. 

Salt Lake City was founded by Mormons, so it’s closely intertwined with the city’s history. You can visit Temple Square for free daily, and it’s great for those interested in Jesus Christ, general religious history, or just architecture buffs. The church is really beautiful and well-maintained.

Adjoining Temple Square is the largest genealogy library in Utah, aka the FamilySearch Library. There’s also the Salt Lake City Tabernacle.

• Insider Tip: Watch out for the free organ concerts at Salt Lake City Tabernacle.
• Practical Information: It is free to visit and open from 10 am until 8 pm daily.

12. Go Zip Lining

Perhaps one of the most adventurous things to do in Salt Lake City is to ride the ziplines at Deer Creek State Park, less than an hour’s drive from the city center. Its most exciting line is the Screaming Falcon, which stretches 3900 ft over the lake and is the longest overwater zipline in the US.

Tickets range from $39 to above $120, depending on what guided tour package you want. Going zip lining is easily one of the most fun things to do in Salt Lake City; it will definitely be an adrenaline rush among summer activities.

Zipline Utah is the company that runs the ziplines in Deer Creek State Park. Visit nearby ziplines, as well, like the ones at Provo Canyon.

• Insider Tip: Consider trying out the Provo Canyon zip lines, which are just next door. 
• Practical Information: Open 9 am until 5 pm with tickets ranging from $39 to above $120.

13. Clark Planetarium

Have you caught Salt Lake City’s weather on an off-day? Clark Planetarium is a great indoor activity on a questionable weather day.

The planetarium runs 3D IMAX films and laser light shows on space and science. It’s an educational place to visit for immersive learning and films-with-a-twist. Settling back to watch a film just provides you with different relaxation. You’ll catch free exhibits, too.

Clark Planetarium is located just outside of the downtown area, around 15 minutes on foot from its center.

• Insider Tip: It’s right next to the Delta Center, so see if there are any events at this venue as well. 
• Practical Information: Tickets are $10 plus tax for shows and free for the exhibits. Open from 10 am until 7 pm from Sunday until Thursday and stays open until 10:45 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. 

14. Capitol Building

Salt Lake City’s Capitol Building sits on top of Capitol Hill and has typical neoclassical architecture. Regardless of your interest in politics and US history, the Capitol Building is stunning to visit and look at. You can take guided tours of its rooms and exhibits. 

The building itself dates back to 1916. Seeing all the marble interior and muraled dome is astounding – you’ll want to take lots of photos, as it’s easily Salt Lake City’s most photogenic building. It’s located north of the city center, around a 35-minute walk from the downtown area.

• Insider Tip: If you are on the fence, just check out its virtual tour – you’ll want to see it in person.
• Practical Information: It is free to visit and open from 7 am until 8 pm from Monday until Thursday and 7 am until 6 pm from Friday to Sunday.

15. Utah Olympic Park

Did you know that  Park City  hosted the Winter Olympics in 2002? Well, Utah Olympic Park was its venue and has everything from ski jumps to bobsled rides. 

You can visit to see where the 2002 Winter Olympics occurred. It’s fascinating to see all the arenas and equipment up close. There are two museums on site, too: George Eccles Museum and Joe Quinney Winter Sports Center. It’s located just outside Salt Lake City, near Park City, in the eastern mountain range.

• Insider Tip: There’s free parking space on site, and it’s best to drive.
• Practical Information: Open from 9 am until 6 pm every day. Prices vary depending on your activities.

16. Go Skiing

If you visit Salt Lake City between December and March, you  have  to try skiing—it’s why the region is popular for winter activities. You’ll have stunning views from the mountains, and advanced skiers will have dozens of routes to enjoy at the ski resort.

There are three main areas for ski resorts near the Salt Lake City area: Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons, Ogden, and Park City. The canyons are famed for deep snow and lots of snowfall. In contrast, Park City is famous for its more luxurious experience and Ogden for family-friendly resorts. For majestic views and a bit of winter adrenaline, you can’t beat skiing in Salt Lake City. Definitely make the most of those nearby mountains.

Insider Tip: Skiing in April after Spring Break will mean fewer crowds.

17. Natural History Museum of Utah

Everyone loves a good Natural History Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Utah has 10 fascinating galleries showcasing all the nature and earth science of the region. It has everything from dinosaur remains to precious gems. 

You could easily spend a couple of hours walking through this modern museum. Remember to check out the special exhibit, too, which is a rotating gallery running two to three different exhibits a year.

The Natural History Museum is located next to Red Butte Garden, so it’s easy to fit into your itinerary. Just catch the bus from the city center, and you’ll be there in 40 minutes.

• Insider Tip: You’ll love all the range of dinosaur exhibits.
• Practical Information: $20 per person and open 10 am until 5 pm every day.

18. Visit Provo

You can’t visit Salt Lake City without taking a day trip to Provo. Utah’s ‘second city’ is known for its culture, housing everything from the BYU Museum of Palaeontology to the Crandall Historical Printing Museum.

Reaching Provo takes just over an hour by FrontRunner train or 50 minutes by car. We’d suggest catching an early train from Salt Lake Central Station to maximize your time and avoid parking nightmares. When you arrive, you can enjoy all of its museums. In summer, you’ll love the proximity to Utah Lake State Park and its beaches.

Insider Tip: Allow time to hike Mt Timpanogos in late spring and summer (bring a car for this activity).

19. Visit the University of Utah Campus

The University of Utah is located on the outskirts of the capital and offers regular guided tours. It’s a beautiful campus, with 100 acres of gardens and an arboretum.

If you fancy putting your academic hat back on, book a General Campus Tour – available to all visitors. You can take a look at the state’s most prestigious research university.

The campus is located just a 20-minute bus ride from the city center and is right next to Red Butte Gardens, so we’d recommend combining the two.

• Insider Tip: Make sure to visit the Utah Museum of Fine Arts on campus.
• Practical Information: A guided tour is free, and times vary depending on availability. 

20. Day Trip to National Parks

You should definitely use Salt Lake City as a base to day trip to the  mighty 5  national parks. Bryce, Canyonlands, Arches, Zion, and Capitol Reef National Park are all amazing spots to enjoy nature. Day-tripping to a national park is one of the most fun things to do in Salt Lake City.

You could tackle hikes like Angels Landing or a scenic drive through Canyonlands. There are so many activities in Utah’s national parks.

If you only have a day and cannot stay overnight, be prepared to set off early in the morning and for a long day of driving. The closest park is either Arches National Park (3 hours and 40 minutes one way) or Bryce Canyon National Park (Approx. 4 hours one way).

Insider Tip: Research permits and weather conditions beforehand.

21. Trolley Square

Trolley Square is full of character. Once a 1900s trolley barn, it was converted into an upscale shopping center – perfect for retail therapy. Check out bookstores, fine dining restaurants, clothing chains, and even a museum on the history of trolleys.

We’d recommend shopping here for anyone wanting to enjoy Salt Lake City’s retail scene. It’s also a covered mall so ideal if you get unlucky with the weather.

Trolley Square stays open until 8 pm nearly every day, so you can enjoy a late meal and some evening shopping. It’s located just outside the downtown area, roughly 30 minutes on foot or 20 minutes on the light rail.

• Insider Tip: Take advantage of the ice cream truck outside!
• Practical Information: It is open from 10 am until 8 pm Monday through Saturday and 12 pm until 5 pm on Sunday.

22. Memory Grove Park

Memory Grove Park is a serene area of green space within Salt Lake City’s bounds. It’s only a 30-minute walk north of the city center and great for a peaceful walk. One of the best things about Salt Lake City is the number of gorgeous parks, so you should definitely make the most of how central Memory Grove Park is.

The Meditation Chapel is a particularly peaceful place to sit and collect your thoughts. You can also walk the Freedom Trail alongside the refreshing sound of City Creek.

The park is full of memorials and monuments that give you that extra prompt for reflection. The water features are beautiful too, with fountains, ponds, and the natural creek.

• Insider Tip: Remember to see the Anderson Tower Monument nearby.
• Practical Information: Open from 8 am until 10 pm and free to enjoy.

23. Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum

Anyone trying to sightsee with children knows the importance of interactive exhibits. At Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum, the target audience is those with a short attention span – so parents, get ready to hit the jackpot.

The museum has over 60,000 square feet of fun learning for children. It has everything from a real helicopter on display to small-world displays like mechanic shops, complete with cars with popped hoods.

If you have young children, visiting the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum is a brilliant way to make your visit to Salt Lake City an extra bit more educational.

• Insider Tip: Avoid the weekends, which get super busy.
• Practical Information: Open Wednesday until Monday from 10 am until 6 pm. Tickets cost $13.50 per adult and $12.50 per child.

24. This Is The Place Heritage Park

Fancy stepping back in time? Well, Salt Lake City certainly would be the place to do so. This Is The Place Heritage Park takes you back to the Old West and the city’s founding. The park has everything from a Native American Village to gold panning exhibits and Mormon history.

It’s a great place to really understand Salt Lake City and its story. It doesn’t feel like a formal museum as it’s such an immersive experience – you’ll be living the days gone by without even realizing you’re learning.

This Is The Place Heritage Park is located on the city’s outskirts, roughly 20 minutes from the city center by car or an hour using the bus.

• Insider Tip: Check out the nearby Living Room Trail when visiting.
• Practical Information: There is a $20 per adult entrance fee, and it is open from 10 am until 5 pm, Monday through Saturday.

25. Red Butte Garden

Red Butte Garden is one of the largest botanical garden attractions in the Intermountain West. It spans 21 acres of manicured gardens and its beautiful displays change seasonally, including over 590,000 flowers in spring—predominantly daffodils.

To immerse yourself for a few hours in natural wonders, Red Butte Garden is by far the prettiest place to do so. It’s a great way to connect with the great outdoors. You can even catch outdoor concerts in summer. It’s located in the east of the city and an easy 15-minute drive from the center. Alternatively, you can catch a 30-minute bus.

• Insider Tip: Check out the events on its main website.
• Practical Information: $16 per adult from 9 am until 5 pm daily.

Your Questions Answered About Salt Lake City

By now, you should have a collection of the best things to do in the Salt Lake City area that are really up your street. You could ski, learn about the Church of the Latter Day Saints, or hike trails in the Red Butte Garden. Salt Lake City has so much to offer. Before you go, though, take a look at these common FAQs.

What is the number one tourist attraction in Salt Lake, Utah?

The number one attraction in the city center is Temple Square. It’s the pinnacle of Mormon history and has spectacular architecture. Great Salt Lake is the city’s greatest attraction outside the center.

What is Salt Lake City best known for?

Salt Lake City is best known for its Mormon history and proximity to a beautiful lake and ski resorts. It also has the best airport to access Utah’s national parks.

Is Salt Lake City worth seeing?

Absolutely. Salt Lake City is a wonderful place to visit because of its mixture of culture (with the Church of the Latter Day Saints and architecture like Temple Square) and nature (with the lake and nearby mountains).

How many days should I spend in Salt Lake City?

We’d recommend at least three days in Salt Lake City and as long as a week if you want to visit a national park or two.

Tips And Information For Visiting

Of course, knowing the best things to do in Salt Lake City is great. But what do you need to know practically about visiting? Let’s cover the vital tips and information you need to know before booking a trip to Salt Lake City. We want you to have the best time possible.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Salt Lake City is between April and June during shoulder season. In April, you can catch the backend of the ski resort season while also starting to enjoy warmer temperatures. May and June are ideal for quiet hiking and biking trails, as well as sightseeing without the crowds.

As a slight caveat, though, your preferred activities when visiting do slightly impact when you should visit. If you want to enjoy swimming in lakes, stick to summer. And if you want the ski season in full swing, we’d suggest visiting between December and March.

Getting There

The easiest way is to fly directly into Salt Lake City International Airport and catch a shuttle to the city center. This is the best option for anyone traveling internationally or who is short on time. 

With more time, you could use Amtrak to reach Salt Lake City. The Utah capital is on the California Zephyr line, connecting Chicago with San Francisco. Visiting by train is much more sustainable, and you get a more extended travel experience—with gorgeous views from the train window.

You could road trip to Salt Lake City as well. Depending on your departure point, you likely need more time than catching the train. However, it’s definitely worthwhile, and Utah is famously great for road trips.

Getting Around

The easiest way to get around Downtown Salt Lake City is on foot or by rented bicycle. The downtown area is highly walkable, and if you stay centrally, the only reason you’d need to consider other options is for day trips. 

That said, you also have a bus service run by the Utah Transit Authority and a light rail system called TRAX. You can purchase the Premium Pass for these, granting you travel for a set price. There’s also a fare-free area within the main downtown, meaning budget-friendly transport if your legs tire.

We’d suggest biting the bullet and hiring a car for those wanting to take day trips to a national park or the lake.

How Much Time Do You Need?

Three days is enough time in Salt Lake City to sightsee around downtown and visit the lake. You’ll be able to get a good taste of the city in this time.

If you want to see some national parks or visit Provo, give yourself a week. Some national parks, like Zion and Arches, are best visited if you plan to stay there overnight rather than on a day trip, so give yourself that extra wiggle room with more days in your itinerary.

Where To Stay in Salt Lake City, Utah

Without a doubt, Downtown Salt Lake City is the best area for tourists to stay in. The city has an all-or-nothing relationship with attractions, and you’ll either experience inner-city attractions like Temple Square  or  head way out into the outskirts to distant attractions like the lake or Red Butte Garden. Because of this, it really isn’t worth staying anywhere but downtown if you’re short on time and want to maximize sightseeing.

If you want a quieter experience in Salt Lake City and aren’t as interested in inner-city sightseeing, Park City is our top recommendation. Park City is residential and relaxing, perfect for resting after a long road trip or working remotely.

For now, though, we’ll focus on Downtown Salt Lake City, as you seem like the sightseeing bunch.

Here are some of the best hotels in Salt Lake City for all budgets :

Salt Lake Plaza Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western ($), The Little America Hotel ($$), and Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown ($$$)

• Luxury: Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown

Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown  is a trendy property with a rooftop pool, fitness center, and onsite restaurant; it’s great for a luxurious base to sightsee the downtown area.

• Mid Range: Little America Hotel Salt Lake City 

The Little America Hotel  is a brilliantly located boutique-style hotel with both an indoor and outdoor pool, spa, and comfortable rooms.

• Budget: Salt Lake Plaza Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western

The downtown area isn’t best known for budget accommodation. While you can find hotels for as little as $70 a night, these mostly have low reviews over things like cleanliness, so we can’t confidently recommend them.  Salt Lake Plaza Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western  is the compromise, offering modern rooms, a fitness center, and a pool for reasonable prices.

Salt Lake City is something special. We love how you’ve got surrounding nature and the cultural aspect with the Natural History Museum and Temple Square. It was hard to narrow things down to these 25 best things to do in Salt Lake City, but we’re confident you’ll love them.

Are you looking for more inspiration on visiting Salt Lake City? Why not check out these  amazing things to do in Utah ? If you visit Salt Lake City for longer than a few days, there’s no reason why you can’t see more in the area. You could plan a few national parks or even a road trip to Las Vegas or the Grand Canyon. Whatever you choose to do, Salt Lake City will keep you entertained. Have a fantastic time.

Utah Resources

• 36 Fun Things To Do In Utah
• 12 Best Hikes in Moab, Utah
• Utah National Parks: How to visit The Mighty 5
• 11 Best Hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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20 Best Tourist Places To Visit Near Salt Lake City

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"In the world of travel, there are places that surprise you, and then there are places that sweep you off your feet, urging you to return time and time." One such majestic destination is Salt Lake City, a veritable wonderland that seamlessly weaves modernity with nature's charm. With its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, the city might be the showstopper, but its lesser-known gems around it make the spectacle truly enthralling. The beauty of Salt Lake City doesn't end at its borders; in fact, it's just the beginning. The surrounding areas brim with stories waiting to be heard, adventures waiting to be embarked upon, and secrets just waiting for the eager traveller. And if you're thinking about day trips near Salt Lake City, you're in for a treat! From sweeping vistas to historical sites, the vicinity of Salt Lake City is an open invitation to every curious soul out there. As they say, "Life's too short for ordinary holidays; aim for extraordinary."

Every traveller knows that the heart of a city is a marvel, but the peripheries often hold the magic. Salt Lake City is no different. Surrounding this vibrant urban heartland are treasures that promise to dazzle, astonish, and captivate. And while the city itself is a gem, the real adventure begins when you step out and embrace the allure of what lies beyond.

Adventure Awaits | Famous Tourist Destinations Close to Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is more than just its salty lake. Dive into the list of Hidden gems near Salt Lake City below to be enthralled by the magic in its vicinity.

• Great Salt Lake | Enormous Saltwater Oasis
• Antelope Island State Park | Bison Roaming Free
• Temple Square | Iconic Religious Landmark
• Natural History Museum of Utah | Ancient Earth's Wonders
• Utah Olympic Park | Thrilling Sports Legacy
• Tracy Aviary | Avian Haven in Nature
• Red Butte Garden and Arboretum | Botanical Tranquillity
• This Is the Place Heritage State Park | Pioneer History Preserved
• Living Planet Aquarium | Oceanic Life Encounters
• Hogle Zoo | Wild Creature Kingdom
• Galleria at the Salt Palace | Shopping Delights Downtown
• Downtown Salt Lake City | Urban Heartbeat, Historic Charms
• Park City | Mountain Retreat, Urban Flair
• Ogden | Gateway to Outdoor Adventures
• Moab | Red Rock Wilderness Playground
• Zion National Park | Majestic Canyon Landscapes
• Arches National Park | Nature's Stone Sculptures
• Bryce Canyon National Park | Hoodoo Wonderland Views
• Capitol Reef National Park | Colourful Geologic Marvels
• Canyonlands National Park | Vast Desert Wilderness

1. Great Salt Lake | Enormous Saltwater Oasis

The Great Salt Lake is more than just a saltwater body; it's an ecological marvel. As the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, it's home to millions of native birds, brine shrimp, and other unique wildlife. Scenic drives around Salt Lake City often lead you to its serene shores, offering unparalleled sunset views that photographers dream about.

• Best Time to Visit: Summer.
• Best for: Nature lovers.
• Major Attractions: Antelope Island, panoramic views, sunsets.

2. Antelope Island State Park | Bison Roaming Free

Imagine a place where you can watch bison roam freely across the land. At Antelope Island State Park, this isn't just a possibility; it's an everyday reality. With the backdrop of the Great Salt Lake, the island offers hiking trails near Salt Lake City that are scenic and diverse in wildlife.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall.
• Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts.
• Major Attractions : Bison herds, bird-watching, hiking.

3. Temple Square | Iconic Religious Landmark

At the heart of Salt Lake City lies Temple Square, a ten-acre complex representing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It's more than a religious centre; it's a piece of architectural brilliance. Reflecting historic sites near Salt Lake City, it's a testament to the city's rich heritage.

• Best Time to Visit: All year.
• Best for: History and architecture enthusiasts.
• Major Attractions: Assembly Hall, Tabernacle, Salt Lake Temple.

4. Natural History Museum of Utah | Ancient Earth's Wonders

A journey through time awaits at the Natural History Museum of Utah. From ancient fossils to vibrant displays of Utah's indigenous tribes, the museum offers a comprehensive view of the state's rich history. As one of the family-friendly attractions near Salt Lake City, it promises a day of learning and fun.

• Best Time to Visit: Winter and Fall.
• Best for: Families and history buffs.
• Major Attractions: Dinosaur exhibits, anthropological displays, interactive sessions.

5. Utah Olympic Park | Thrilling Sports Legacy

Once the playground for athletes during the 2002 Winter Olympics, the Utah Olympic Park is now a venue for visitors to experience the thrills of winter sports. Adventure enthusiasts are in for a treat with a range of outdoor activities near Salt Lake City, from bobsledding to ski jumping.

• Best Time to Visit: Winter.
• Best for: Adrenaline junkies.
• Major Attractions: Bobsleigh rides, ski training, Olympic memorabilia.

6. Tracy Aviary | Avian Haven in Nature

Dip into the colourful world of our feathered friends at Tracy Aviary. Nestled in the heart of Salt Lake City's Liberty Park, this sanctuary boasts over 400 birds from 135 species. It's more than just a viewing experience – with educational programs and bird shows, it's an interactive journey through avifauna. Being a renowned spot for family-friendly attractions near Salt Lake City, it's perfect for budding ornithologists and casual visitors.

• Best for: Families and nature enthusiasts.
• Major Attractions: Bird shows, endangered species programs, beautiful landscape.

7. Red Butte Garden and Arboretum | Botanical Beauty

How about a walk through one of the region's largest botanical gardens? Stretching over 100 acres, Red Butte Garden is a riot of colours, especially during bloom seasons. It's an engaging mix of themed gardens, walking paths, and serene ponds. And for those into hiking trails near Salt Lake City, this garden offers picturesque paths to stroll upon.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and Early Summer.
• Best for: Nature lovers and photographers.
• Major Attractions: Seasonal floral displays, concerts, and workshops.

8. This Is the Place Heritage State Park | Pioneer History Preserved

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Utah's history. This park offers a tangible experience of the pioneer era, from traditional crafts to replica settlements. It stands as a testament to the brave settlers of the region, making it one of the prominent historic sites near Salt Lake City.

• Best for: History buffs and families.
• Major Attractions: Pioneer village, train rides, historical reenactments.

9. Living Planet Aquarium | Oceanic Life Encounters

Journey into the aquatic world without even leaving the city. Living Planet Aquarium is home to over 4,500 animals spanning 550 species. From Antarctic penguins to Amazonian creatures, it showcases ecosystems from around the globe. It's a deep dive into nature's watery wonders and easily ranks among the best family-friendly attractions near Salt Lake City.

• Best for: Families and marine enthusiasts.
• Major Attractions: Shark tunnel, penguin encounter, rainforest exhibit.

10. Hogle Zoo | Wild Creature Kingdom

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Salt Lake City, UT

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lana Law enjoys visiting the sights of Salt Lake City and frequently uses the city as a base for trips to the surrounding ski resorts.

Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah , is a young and dynamic city, home to natural, historic, and religious attractions, along with nearby skiing and mountain-based adventures.

While Salt Lake City has long been known primarily for being the religious center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and many of the city's top attractions do focus on this aspect, hosting the Olympic Winter Games added a new dynamic and put the city on the map for international travelers. Today, you can find great dining, shopping, and a variety of things to do here in summer or winter.

Some of the top places to visit in Salt Lake City can be found in the downtown area, including Temple Square and the Temple . In the city center, many of the attractions are in close proximity to one another, making sightseeing easy. Many travelers also use the city as a base and day trip to the nearby ski resorts , or simply to enjoy an outing to the nearby mountains and towns, like Park City and Deer Valley, less than an hour away.

Discover the best things to see and do with our list of top tourist attractions in Salt Lake City

See also: Where to Stay in Salt Lake City

1. Visit Temple Square

2. salt lake temple, 3. natural history museum of utah, 4. ski at nearby ski resorts, 5. red butte garden, 6. tour the state capitol, 7. the salt lake tabernacle, 8. this is the place heritage park, 9. joseph smith memorial building, 10. liberty park, 11. see the birds at tracy aviary, 12. learn about brigham young at the beehive house, 13. hogle zoo, 14. shop at city creek center, where to stay in salt lake city for sightseeing, where to stay in salt lake city for skiing.

Although Temple Square is one of the top highlights of Salt Lake City, it's in the midst of a massive six-year restoration project, and many areas will be closed until at least 2024. Buildings are being upgraded, and in some cases completely replaced, and a new tunnel is being installed to improve access and pedestrian flow.

It is expected that the North Visitor's Center, Tabernacle, Assembly Hall, and the Joseph Hall Memorial Building will remain open. The Temple building will be closed. Before your visit, check to see the latest updates on the temple website.

Temple Square is the holy place of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Spread out over 35 acres, you'll find beautiful flowering trees; colorful flowerbeds; fountains; and four key church buildings: The Temple , the Tabernacle , the Temple Annex , and the Assembly Hall . In addition to these spectacular buildings, you'll come across several historical monuments highlighting important people and events in the faith.

For a more in-depth understanding of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, visit one of the two information centers at the entrances to the square. They supply information, and the staff is more than happy to answer questions about the doctrines and the history of the faith and the area. Tours of the complex are free and are provided by female volunteer missionaries, known as sisters.

This is a peaceful place to simply wander around, particularly in spring and summer when the flowers and trees are in bloom. Several well-regarded restaurants in this area make good lunch stops.

One of the most iconic Salt Lake City landmarks is the Salt Lake Temple . Designed and built in the unique church style, this stunning building was constructed between 1853 and 1893. At each end of this huge granite structure are three towers, the highest of which, at the east end, bears a 13-foot-high gilded figure of the angel Moroni.

The temple may be entered only by church members, but very detailed models of the spectacular interior are on display at the North visitors' centers that are open to all.

Address: 50 West North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, Utah

The Natural History Museum of Utah is a wonderful family activity or something to do on a cold or rainy day in Salt Lake City. Housed in a spectacular copper-clad concrete building with soaring spaces, the museum has more than 40,000 square feet of displays and educational facilities with 1.6 million objects in its collection.

Approximately 5,000 items are on display at any given time, and some of the highlights include the digital globe, dinosaur fossils, and a three-story indoor canyon. There are seven permanent collections including Paleontology, Anthropology, Entomology, Vertebrate Zoology, Mineralogy, Botany, and Malacology (the study of mollusks).

The views from the observation deck out across the city and valley are spectacular.

Address: 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, Utah

If you love to ski, Salt Lake City is a destination that should be on your list of places to visit. Within easy reach of the city are the ski resorts of Park City , Deer Valley , Snowbird , Alta , Brighton, Solitude , Snowbasin, Powder Mountain, and Sundance.

Just up Interstate 80, you'll find the resorts of Park City and Deer Valley. If you prefer smaller resorts, Alta and Snowbird are up the Little Cottonwood Valley via Highway 210. Both drives are twisty and scenic, as they take you into the heart of the jagged Wasatch Range . Solitude and Brighton are north over the ridge over in Big Cottonwood Valley, only a few miles away as the crow flies, but over an hour by road.

If you head north of Salt Lake City for about an hour, you'll find two lesser-known but still amazing resorts: Snowbasin and Powder Mountain. Snowbasin is an ideal destination if you love skiing but hate crowds. It's rarely too busy, and the lift infrastructure is excellent, as it was one of the host mountains of the 2002 Winter Olympics.

Powder Mountain has the largest skiable terrain of all the resorts in the United States and limits the number of skiers on the mountain to 1,000. For those who prefer a smaller and historic ski resort, head an hour south of Salt Lake City to Sundance, started in 1969 and made famous by actor Robert Redford.

For skiers and boarders watching their pennies, Salt Lake City is a great base, with a good assortment of cheap and mid-range hotels and a wide variety of restaurants. This makes SLC a good alternative to staying at the resorts, where you'll pay tourist prices versus local prices in town.

One often overlooked advantage of staying in Salt Lake City is the lower elevation, which will limit the effects of the altitude.

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in Utah

Next to the Natural History Museum is Red Butte Garden , a very popular attraction with locals. It's worth a stop if you are visiting in spring. The garden is known throughout the western USA for its spring blooms and not just a few — over 500,000 flowers burst into a riot of color!

If you'd like to do a bit of walking or hiking, the gardens are spread out over 21 acres, and five miles of trails , some that are relatively steep, wind their way past the most interesting parts of the park. For those who prefer to ride, a 20-minute professionally narrated tram ride leaves on a regular basis. Parking is plentiful and free.

Set 300 feet above the city at the north end of State Street, on Capitol Hill, is the Utah State Capitol . This towering, neoclassical, domed building houses the House of Representatives, Senate, and Supreme Court of Utah.

The interior is known for its marble rotunda, the Golden Room (the Governor's reception room), and a small gallery with changing exhibits. Along the main hallways are wall panels showing the development and history of Utah through the ages.

You can walk the building on your own or make a booking for a guided tour. Be sure to look up to the paintings on the ceiling, and don't miss the view out over the city to the snow-capped mountains from the top of the main exterior staircase.

Capitol Hill is located an easy stroll northeast of Temple Square at the end of State Street. Many of the city's attractions are located here, including the historic Marmalade District .

Address: 350 North State Street, 120 State Capitol, Salt Lake City, Utah

The tabernacle is a massive oval building with a dome perched on 44 sandstone piers. The sober interior, with seating for over 6,500 people, is noted for its fine acoustics. Free tours are offered throughout the day, and an interesting example of the acoustics is performed. If you are lucky, you may also be able to attend a free performance or recital, which take place on a regular basis.

At the west end is the gallery for the celebrated Tabernacle Choir , and above it is the great organ with an astounding 11,623 pipes.

Address: Temple Square, Salt Lake City, Utah

When, after the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' 1,300-mile-long trek, Brigham Young emerged from Emigration Canyon and saw the valley of his visions, he exclaimed "This is the place!" This park makes an ideal family outing and is just 15 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City.

This is the Place park traces the history of the early pioneers and settlers to Utah in the mid-19th century, but some of the fun things to do here include pony rides, train rides, and a splash pad called the Irrigation Station. You can even dig for gold at the Treasure House.

One of the main features at the park is This Is The Place Monument , a huge sculpture created in 1947 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Latter-day Saints' arrival in Salt Lake Valley. The park also includes the Old Deseret Village , a living history museum built to resemble a typical mid-19th-century Latter-day Saints community.

Address: 2601 East Sunnyside Avenue, Salt Lake City, Utah

One of the main buildings in Temple Square is the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. Constructed in 1911 and originally known as the Hotel Utah, it was later renamed in honor of the first president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The building is 10 stories high and is made with glazed terra-cotta bricks, which shine in the strong Utah sun. It's well worth stepping inside to see features like the marble columns, art glass, and the grand staircase.

On-site are the Legacy Theater, conference rooms, the Family Search Center, and three restaurants, including one on the 10 th floor called Rooftop, which offers exceptional views over Temple Square and the city.

Address: 52 North Main Street, Salt Lake City, Utah

Spread out over more than 80 acres, Liberty Park is Salt Lake City's largest public park and home to a variety of recreational activities. This green space is a lovely nature retreat with mature trees, and many residents come here in summer to picnic or relax under the shady canopy of leaves.

Ideal for a family outing, the park has numerous things to do, including tennis courts, bocce ball courts, basketball courts, and a public swimming pool. Fitness buffs can take advantage of the two jogging paths-one paved, and one covered by woodchips. The park is also home to Tracy Aviary .

The park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as is Chase Mill , on the edge of Tracy Aviary. Built in 1852, Chase Mill is the oldest commercial building in the state.

Sunday is a popular day at Liberty Park, when large drum circles take place. You can see people from all ages and walks of life drumming and singing along.

Address: 600 E 900 S, Salt Lake City, Utah

On the south side of Liberty Park is the Tracy Aviary , with a large variety of birds from North America and other parts of the world. One of the world's oldest aviaries, it was established in 1938 by a local resident.

Perfect for families, the Tracy Aviary has 19 indoor and outdoor exhibits, spread across a wide area. Be sure to see Andy the Andean Condor, one of the aviary's highlights. This huge bird has a wingspan of nearly 11 feet.

Every morning during the spring, summer, and fall starting at 10am and repeating every 10 minutes until 10:30 is the Lorikeet Adventure show . For a small additional fee, you'll be able to see (and hear!) these colorful birds performing in a fascinating fashion. An afternoon show follows the same format and starts at 1:30pm.

After you've caught the lorikeet show, be sure to see the Keeper's Talk. This educational session takes place at 2:15pm at various animal enclosures around the park.

Address: 589 E 1300 S, Salt Lake City, Utah

The Beehive House , built in 1845, was Brigham Young's residence as Governor of Utah and leader of the Church Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He and his large family of 19 wives and 56 children lived here for many years.

Free tours led by church members take visitors through the mansion, which is furnished with many original period pieces. Some of the highlights are the intricate woodwork on the banisters and the original woodworking tools used by Brigham Young.

Of architectural note is the beehive on the turret of the house. This is the symbol of the industriousness of the early members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The same symbol also appears in the state's coat of arms.

Address: 67 East South Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah

Hogle Zoo is a wonderful family-friendly destination in Salt Lake City. Located on the eastern fringes of the city, it is easily accessible from downtown. Spread out over 42 acres, the zoo has over 800 animals from around the world.

Seven major exhibits are available, including Elephant Encounter, World of Flight, Great Apes, Primate Forest, Rocky Shores, African Savanna, Asian Highlands, and lastly the Small Animal Building.

For a small fee, children can ride a miniature train that goes right past the lion cages, take a spin on a historical carousel, or have fun in the Lighthouse Point Splash zone on hot summer days.

To get more up close and personal with the animals, consider signing up for a Wildlife Connections program. For an additional fee, you'll be able to pet and feed a giraffe or a rhinoceros. These programs only run during the summer months.

City Creek Center is Salt Lake City's premier shopping destination , not only for the shops but for the atmosphere. Part of an urban renewal project, the mall is light and airy and contains over 100 of the top retailers in fashion, home décor, footwear, and electronics, among many others.

City Creek Center is unique in the fact that it actually has a creek, complete with fish, running through the center of it, and a retractable roof that is open on warm days. Be sure to check out the fascinating water fountain, complete with dancing flames set to accompanying music.

A large indoor play area for children by the food court has a dinosaur theme and is a hit with moms, who can enjoy a coffee while the kids burn off some energy in the playground.

Most of Salt Lake City's tourist attractions are in the downtown core, including Temple Square, the Salt Lake City Temple, and the State Capitol. The trendy west downtown area is where many of the city's best restaurants are located. If you are in the city for sightseeing, entertainment, and nightlife, this is the best place to stay.

If your main purpose is to hit the nearby ski hills, and you aren't interested in going out at night, be sure to stay on the eastern edge of the city. That way, you'll save time commuting across the city or out of downtown.

For the resorts of Park City, stay in the northeastern area, for the resorts of the Little Cottonwood Valley (Alta, Snowbird), stay in the southeastern area of the city.

Below is a list of highly rated hotels in good locations :

Luxury Hotels:

• The towering Grand America Hotel , with elegantly furnished rooms with balconies, occupies a prime spot in downtown Salt Lake City, just a short walk from Temple Square and local eateries.
• Ideal for event or trade show attendees, the nearby Kimpton Hotel Monaco features well-appointed rooms and is pet-friendly.
• The Salt Lake City Marriott City Center is a luxury option just steps away from the lively City Center Mall with its many shopping and dining options.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In the center of the action and near several popular restaurants is the recently renovated Hilton Garden Inn , with large rooms, a 24-hour pool, and a free airport shuttle.
• A couple of miles to the east of downtown and near the Museum of Natural History is the University Guest House , with comfortable rooms and a free shuttle to area attractions.
• Fifteen minutes to the east and convenient for those heading to the ski hills is the new Home2 Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City East hotel. This hotel features rooms with good views of the city along with a saltwater pool and hot tub.

Budget Hotels:

• The following hotels are within walking distance of Temple Square and a variety of good restaurants. At the top end of the budget category, the Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites Salt Lake City Downtown , with an indoor pool, is one of the most popular budget hotels.
• The Metropolitan Inn , with a seasonal outdoor pool, is known for exceptional rates, which include breakfast.
• A good middle ground is the recently renovated Comfort Inn Downtown , with spacious rooms and an outdoor hot tub with a fireplace. All of these hotels are pet friendly and provide a complimentary breakfast.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Visiting Utah's Parks: Utah's national and state parks are some of America's greatest natural treasures. Nature lovers can spend countless vacations in Utah. Walk along the cliff walls on the hiking trails in Zion National Park or below the towering stone spires on the trails in Bryce Canyon National Park . Pitch your tent or set up your RV in the campgrounds near Moab (Arches NP) or Capitol Reef . And if you want to escape the crowds, get off the beaten path on the hiking trails near St. George and discover the incredible Snow Canyon.

More on Utah

19 Jaw-Dropping Hikes In & Near Salt Lake City to Do Before You Die

By Kay Rodriguez

FYI: Some of our posts include affiliate links. When you make a purchase from one of these links, Urban Outdoors may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Updated September 15, 2022

With rocky mountains, sparkling waterfalls, and stunning forests, Salt Lake City is an outdoor lover’s mecca. Surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains, there are tons of world-class hiking trails with incredible views in less than an hour’s drive from the city center. Needless to say, hiking in Salt Lake City is one of the most popular local activities, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the breathtaking scenery nearby (and get great exercise, too!). We created this guide to some of the best hikes in Salt Lake City so you can plan your next epic outdoor adventure!

Easy Hiking in Salt Lake City

Ensign peak.

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 0 miles
• Trail Length: 0.8 miles
• Elevation Gain: 374 feet

Although it’s a short trail, Ensign Peak is one of the quintessential Salt Lake City hikes, famous for its stunning views of the city and the Wasatch Mountains in the distance. You’ll gain a whopping 374 feet in less than half a mile of trail, which is fairly steep but doable as it’s so short. On clear days, you can see out for miles across the tops of buildings, all the way out to faint silhouettes of mountains off in the distance. If you’re looking for a short leg burner with fabulous rewards, the Ensign Peak trail is a great option for hiking in Salt Lake City.

Cecret Lake Trail

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 32 miles/50 minutes
• Trail Length: 1.7 miles
• Elevation Gain: 459 feet

It’s no secret that Cecret Lake is one of the prettiest easy hikes in Salt Lake City! Pronounced like “secret,” Cecret Lake is a small, teal lake located in the mountains surrounding the city. A short, 1.7-mile out-and-back trail will take you up to this lake, which is the perfect spot for an afternoon siesta or a picnic.

While there is significant elevation gain, it’s gradual and definitely doable for any hiker willing to take on the challenge. Surrounded by evergreen trees and often still as glass, this lake boasts one of the prettiest views in the area, and it’s a perfect hike for any experience level.

Willow Lake

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 29 miles/40 minutes
• Trail Length: 2.4 miles
• Elevation Gain: 633 feet

For a spectacular family-friendly trail that offers several mountain views, Willow Heights is a great option. At nearly 3 miles, this easy to moderate trail offers a peaceful walk through very pretty wooded areas and a small lake at the top where you can often spot local wildlife stopping for a sip of water. Along the way, you’ll pass through shaded areas and open alpine meadows that boast striking views of nearby mountaintops.

If you go in the morning or during the week, you can often get the trail to yourself, which is great for enjoying the beauty of the landscape and the solitude of nature.

Donut Falls

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 25 miles/45 minutes
• Trail Length: 3.1 miles
• Elevation Gain: 521 feet

Donut Falls is one of the more unique easy hikes in Salt Lake City, as it takes hikers to a magical little grotto with a waterfall that flows through a circular “donut” hole in the rocks! A short, easy hike through the valley and evergreen forests will bring you to the falls area, which features a small, pebble-lined grotto where the water flows through. Kids love this hike because of the variety of scenery and the interesting waterfall, and it’s a very family-friendly spot for hiking in Salt Lake City.

Rattlesnake Gulch

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 13 miles/20 minutes
• Trail Length: 3.3 miles
• Elevation Gain: 816 feet

If you’re willing to tackle the 816-foot ascent, the Rattlesnake Gulch trail is one of the most rewarding hikes in Salt Lake City. With absolutely breathtaking views of the mountains and the city below, the trail is best done early in the morning or later in the evening, when the sun is low and the sky is painted all kinds of warm colors. The trail mostly wraps around the side of the mountain and is clear of trees, offering great views almost the entire way. And while the 816-foot ascent may seem daunting, it’s fairly gradual and is doable for anyone willing to work for it!

Albion Meadows

• Trail Length: 3.6 miles
• Elevation Gain: 744 feet

The Albion Meadows trail is a scenic walk through the alpine fields and valleys that cut through the mountaintops. As one of the easier trails in the area, this is the perfect hike for beginners or families with kids. All along the way, you’ll get fantastic views of nearby mountains and you’ll even pass by a small, scenic lake. In the spring and summer, wildflowers line the trails and fill the fields with pops of color, which adds to the magical aura of this hike. Note that the wide trails of this hike are not shaded, so a wide brimmed hat and sunscreen are a must if you’re planning to hike during the day.

Moderate Hikes in Salt Lake City

Lake blanche.

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 22 miles/30 minutes
• Trail Length: 6.9 miles
• Elevation Gain: 2,706 feet

Lake Blanche is easily one of the most beloved hikes in Salt Lake City, and for more experienced hikers, this moderate trail offers a fun challenge with amazing views at the top. The trail has it all – forested pathways, alpine meadows, tiny waterfalls, and a scenic mirror lake surrounded by rocky peaks. For a 7-mile hike, that’s a LOT to see!

You can often catch local wildlife, like deer, moose, and birds, along the trail’s edges, especially if you go early in the morning when they’re most active. For photographers, Lake Blanche is a popular photo spot in the area, and you can catch really great light during the early and late hours of the day when the towering Twin Peaks reflect with golden rays into the water. All in all, it’s a magical trail that you have to experience to understand.

Waterfall Canyon

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 35 miles/40 minutes
• Elevation Gain: 1,105 feet

If you combined a towering rock canyon with sparkling waterfalls, Waterfall Canyon is what you’d get. With tons of rocky terrain and some great views of the valley, there’s a reason why Waterfall Canyon is such a beloved place to go hiking in Salt Lake City. The trail begins in a forest, then works its way up to an open canyon where you’ll find the waterfall and plenty of fun scrambling spots. Note that during dry times of year, the waterfall may not be very powerful – the best time to go to see the falls is during the spring or after heavy periods of rain.

Stewart Falls Trail

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 20 miles/20 minutes
• Trail Length: 3.4 miles
• Elevation Gain: 646 feet

For another short waterfall trail that offers beautiful views, Stewart Falls is an excellent choice. This waterfall cascades down a rocky mountain face and is absolutely gorgeous, especially in the spring or after rainfall. On the way up to the falls, you’ll get to see gorgeous views of the valley below and the surrounding mountains, which are especially gorgeous as the trees change colors in the fall. An all-around gorgeous and fun hike, Stewart Falls should definitely be on your list.

The Living Room Trail

• Trail Length: 2.3 miles
• Elevation Gain: 980 feet

One of the most beloved hiking trails in Salt Lake City is the Living Room Trail, which is a short, moderate hike to an excellent viewpoint extending all the way out over the city to the lake. Located in the Red Butte Canyon Research Area, the trail has virtually no tree cover or shade, which means you’ll get excellent views (and a LOT of sun) throughout the entire hike. While this hike is quite steep, it’s definitely doable for moderately experienced hikers who want a challenge. Plus, the views from the top are well worth the effort!

Lake Mary, Martha and Catherine

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 32 miles/44 minutes
• Trail Length: 4.4 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,243 feet

The trail to Lakes Mary, Martha, and Catherine – also known as Brighton Lakes – is one of the most magnificent and stunning hikes in Salt Lake City. As the name suggests, the trail boasts three shimmering alpine lakes, plus bird’s eye views of them as you continue to make your way up the mountain. Throughout the trail, there’s alternating shade and open meadows, meaning you’ll get plenty of variety as you make the 1,243-foot ascent. For a moderate, half-day hike that’s not too challenging or technical, the Brighton Lakes trail is one of the best there is.

Desolation Lake

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 27 miles/40 minutes (Big Cottonwood Canyon)
• Trail Length: 7.7 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,988 feet

Another fabulous (and slightly longer) hike to an alpine lake is the Desolation Lake trail, which runs through Big Cottonwood Canyon. Although this trail has an elevation gain of nearly 2,000 feet, it’s a very steady and gradual incline over the 3.8 miles out to the lake. Along the way, you’ll pass through forested areas, next to mountain streams, and through open fields to get to the spectacular, teal Desolation Lake. There are also ample opportunities for seeing moose and other local wildlife if you go early in the morning!

Difficult Hikes Near Salt Lake City

Mount olympus.

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 14 miles/20 minutes
• Trail Length: 8 miles
• Elevation Gain: 4,192 feet

Mount Olympus is one of the quintessential Salt Lake City hikes for experienced hikers, and summits one of the city’s closest mountains. Not for the faint of heart, the trail gains over 4,000 feet of elevation over the course of ~4 miles. However, while the trail is quite strenuous and requires a bit of scrambling, it’s also a fantastic first summit for locals or less experienced hikers to get some more advanced hiking under their belts.

The views from the trail and at the summit are absolutely mind-blowing, and on clear days you can see for miles across the city and across to the other peaks of the Wasatch Mountains. For those who want a fun, full-day challenge that will get your heart pumping, the Mount Olympus is a must for hiking in Salt Lake City.

Neffs Canyon

• Trail Length: 7 miles
• Elevation Gain: 3,559 feet

Stream crossings and steep ascents mark the Neffs Canyon Trail, which is another challenging hike that’s super close to Salt Lake City. This 7-mile trail winds through forests, streams, and alpine meadows to a stellar view of Neffs Canyon and the city down below. Popular with dogs and experienced hikers, this trail is difficult because it’s steep, but there isn’t much scrambling or technical challenge to it. For a leg burner that has lovely views, Neffs Canyon is a local favorite.

Grandeur Peak

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 10 miles/15 minutes
• Trail Length: 6 miles
• Elevation Gain: 2,627 feet

Another favorite summit hike in the city is Grandeur Peak, which towers above the buildings nearby. True to its name, the trail offers magnificent views all over the area. As another summit hike, you’ll get all the perks of hiking in Salt Lake City – steep but fun and challenging trails, alternating shade and sun, and absolutely spectacular views all around. While the trail is difficult because of its elevation gain, it’s actually a fairly gradual incline, making it one of the “easier” difficult hikes on our list. Many locals do this trail often because they love it so much, and with its dreamy mountain views, who wouldn’t?

Bell’s Canyon Trail

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 21 miles/30 minutes (Little Cottonwood Canyon)
• Trail Length: 4.6 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,453 feet

As the shortest hard hike on our list, don’t be fooled – Bell’s Canyon is equal parts challenging and beautiful. Because it’s so short, you’ll definitely feel the elevation gain a lot more than some of the longer challenging hikes on our list. Along the 4.6 miles of this trail, you’ll find tough inclines, rock scrambling, and uneven terrain. But when you see the incredible waterfalls along the trail and the canyon views, you’ll understand that the reward was definitely worth the effort.

Red Pine Lake

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 31 miles/1 hour
• Elevation Gain: 2,073 feet

As one of two difficult alpine lake hikes on our list, Red Pine Lake is an absolute gem hidden in the Wasatch Mountains. Hiking in Salt Lake City doesn’t get much better than this, with its challenging ascent, gorgeous mountain views (some of the best in the area) and the serene, cool waters of the lake. On the way up, you’ll find rocky terrain with some spectacular streams and small cascades. Oh, and you’ll also find some of the best mountaintop views of Great Salt Lake on the way up, too.

White Pine Lake

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 26 miles/35 minutes
• Trail Length: 10.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: 2,762 feet

Another stellar alpine lake with jaw-dropping views, White Pine Lake is Red Pine’s counterpart and it is well worth the 10.5 miles of hiking required to get there. This trail is much less popular than Red Pine Lake, meaning there’s a good chance you’ll have many parts of the trail to yourself. Along the way, you’ll climb 2,700+ feet and see some absolutely fantastic mountain peak views (similarly beautiful to the ones on Red Pine). If you’re feeling up to it, you can continue on to summit White Baldy, which requires a significant scramble but provides some really amazing views.

Broads Fork Twin Peaks

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 24 miles/30 minutes
• Elevation Gain: 5,285 feet

Possibly the most challenging hike on our list, the Broads Fork Twin Peaks trail is actually a combination of two different trails – Broad Forks and Twin Peaks. If you want to shorten this hike or break it in two, it’s absolutely doable as you can just do these hikes separately. For us, however, a good full-day hike is a must every so often, and the 10.5-mile adventure of the trails combined is a welcome challenge.

Climbing over 5,000 feet of elevation, this hike isn’t for the faint of heart, nor is it suitable for beginners. You’ll hike up to the summit of Twin Peaks (11,303 feet of altitude) and then back the way you came. The trails can be difficult to follow and a good portable GPS (not your phone) is highly recommended so you don’t get lost. After lots of uphill leg burning and scrambling, you’ll reach the Twin Peaks summit and look down on some of the most incredible and rewarding views in the entire Salt Lake City area.

Additional Resources for Hiking Near Salt Lake City

What to pack.

• Breathable hiking clothes – For warmer hikes, you’ll want to wear a sweat-wicking shirt and breathable pants, like these Patagonia hiking shorts for men and women . For cold-weather hikes, we recommend dressing in layers, including merino wool baselayers for men and women , a down puffer jacket for men and women , and a Northface waterproof outer shell for men and women (a must for hiking in Seattle). And don’t forget a pair of the best women’s and men’s hiking socks!
• Trekking poles – You won’t need these for every single hike , but we suggest throwing them in your car just in case. We recommend the Black Diamond Trail Ergo cork trekking poles , which are lightweight, easy to transport, and durable.
• Water bottle – Having water available at all times is a huge must. To limit disposable plastic, we recommend bringing your own refillable water bottle. We’re obsessed with Hydro Flask water bottles because they keep water cold for hours.
• Sunscreen and bug spray – Sweatproof sunscreen and DEET bug spray can help you avoid sunburn and bug bites, two of hiking’s most annoying after-effects. Our favorite kind of sunscreen is Sun Bum , as it is free of harsh chemicals and safe for marine life, including coral reefs.
• A brimmed hat or cap – The sun can be brutal in open hikes, so always pack a brimmed hat or cap for day hikes in the sunshine.
• Emergency blanket and first aid kit – We’d strongly recommend bringing a first aid kit and a lightweight emergency blanket on every hike. Why? Because the unfathomable can happen, and it’s always best to play it safe.
• Durable day pack – A durable day pack is the perfect spot to stash all your hiking gear. While any backpack will do, we recommend the Osprey Tempest 20 or the Talon 22 day packs because they’re comfortable and breathable for long hikes. For more information, check out our best day packs for any terrain guide.

Wondering what exactly you should pack for your next hike? Visit our Complete Day Hiking Packing List for our full list and our top gear recommendations.

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26 Hidden Gems in Salt Lake City for Off the Beaten Path Exploring

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

Uncovering hidden gems in Salt Lake City is like opening a treasure chest of the best historical, artistic, and natural experiences in Utah. Among the city’s bustling streets and towering mountain backdrop, there are Salt Lake City off-the-beaten-path destinations awaiting you.

Embrace extraordinary nature, explore immersive historical sites, or uncover your family roots at the World’s Largest Genealogical library — all in Salt Lake City! In addition to the best museums, parks, and tours, we’ve included some Salt Lake City Hidden gems to connect with its local and nostalgic sides!

Float on the Great Salt Lake

Discover one of the best hidden gems of Salt Lake City: the Great Salt Lake, just a quick drive from downtown. As its name states, it’s salty, meaning visitors can easily float on top! If you’re looking to take a dip in the lake, Antelope State Park is the best place to do it from.

Being the 8th largest salt lake in the world and the largest in the Western Hemisphere, it’s a  must-visit , whether you want to take a dip or simply enjoy a day in Utah’s natural scenery. And somehow, this is an activity that many visitors to Salt Lake City miss out on.

Get Nostalgic on the Salt Lake City Trolley Tour

Munch on some nostalgic snacks and explore the city in a unique way on the Salt Lake City Trolley Tour. The trolley tour is one of the best ways to see (& learn about) famous landmarks in Salt Lake City in only 90 minutes while being led by the city’s most quirky and fun tour guides!

Fun fact: While the trolleys have a vintage feel, they’re a modern nod to the city’s old streetcar system, which was once the heartbeat of Salt Lake’s transit.

Admire The Sculptures at Gilgal Gardens

Step into the quirky and unique world of Gilgal Gardens, where art and nature merge. This sculpture park showcases original stone sculptures and engraved stones that reflect the personal philosophy and dreams of its creator, Thomas Child.

From a sphinx with Joseph Smith’s face to curious biblical symbols, this garden is truly one of Salt Lake City’s off-the-beaten-path attractions and one of the most unique places in the city. Plus, entry is free!

Browse the Selection at Randy’s Record Shop – a True Salt Lake City Hidden Gem

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Randy’s Record Shop is the best of the hidden gems in Salt Lake City for vinyl collectors — not to mention they carry turntables, CDs, and cassettes. It’s a living throwback to before everything went digital!

Opened in 1978, Randy had a passion for oldies and records, and his shop isn’t only a great place to visit if you have the same passion as Randy, but is a unique place to visit as record shops like his aren’t easy to come by anymore!

Dive Into Local History at the Natural History Museum of Utah

Tucked in the foothills of Salt Lake City, the Natural History Museum of Utah is a treasure trove of the region’s ancient past and natural wonders. The exhibits host over 1.6 million items that span from prehistoric dinosaurs to Utah’s diverse ecosystems.

Fun fact: The museum’s architecture is inspired by the very landscapes its exhibits showcase, blending into its mountainous surroundings. Just a short drive from downtown, this spot is truly a treat for natural history lovers. And for an added bonus for our nature explorers, there are hiking trails just minutes away you can check out before or after your museum visit!

Take a Road Trip to the Bonneville Salt Flats Hidden Gem outside Salt Lake City

If you’ve ever felt fed up with humankind but aren’t quite sure how to blast off to space, a visit to the Bonneville Salt Flats might be the next best option. Stretching over vast expanses, this stark white salt flat offers an ethereal backdrop that feels like stepping onto another planet.

Perfect for photography, contemplative walks, or just marveling at nature’s wonders if you’re up for a mini-road trip, the 1.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City is worth it. The salty ground is also a popular land-speed racing destination, and each year, there’s a  racing event  featuring funky vehicles with a need for speed.

Wind Down with a Movie at the Redwood Drive-In Movie Theater

And once again, with the nostalgia in Salt Lake City — we see you! About a 15-minute drive from downtown, catch a flick the way it was meant to be, under the night sky, cuddled up in your car with a bucket of buttery popcorn in hand at the Redwood Drive-in Movie Theater.

Tickets run at only $10 for adults, and with the  latest movies playing , you can brag to your friends that you got to watch it at the drive-in while they went to ordinary theatres. In addition, there’s a weekly swap meet where you can get to know the locals and buy something you didn’t know you needed from over 300 vendors!

Wander the Architecture of the Salt Lake City Public Library

A striking modern architectural marvel, the Salt Lake City Public Library is more than just a place for books. With its six-story glass walls offering epic city and mountain views, it’s an inviting space for reading, contemplation, and urban sightseeing and an off-the-beaten-path place to visit that isn’t on every itinerary.

Beyond its vast collection of over 500,000 books, the library’s unique design, featuring a walkable wall and curved atrium, is a definite conversation starter. After strolling through the library (or cuddling up with a good book), remember to check out the locally-owned shops just outside to buy some local art or have some food.

Chow Down at Ruth’s Diner: Salt Lake City Secret Spot to Eat

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Salt Lake City once again hits us with nostalgia and brings us Ruth’s Diner, which has been serving hungry patrons since 1930! This diner seemingly takes you back in time with classic dishes, an old juke box, and design that feels like a 50’s diner.

Come along for breakfast or stop by for an evening bite. With dishes like French toast, Rueben sandwiches, and delectable cobbers, you’re in for a classic American diner experience with friendly servers, delicious food, and a charming atmosphere.

Find Your Peace at the Red Butte Botanical Garden

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Tucked away by the mountains is one of the Salt Lake City secret places perfect for a natural escape: the Red Butte Botanical Garden. The 100 acres showcase a variety of plant species and seasonal gardens, plus 22 acres of themed gardens such as the rose and medicinal gardens.

With so much land and five miles of trails, you can find your own slice of peace in the gardens. Plus, with its location right next to the National History Museum of Utah, you can pair these two hidden gems in Salt Lake City together in one trip!

Get Adventurous at the Salt Lake City Utah Olympic Park

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A lasting testament to the 2002 Winter Olympics, Utah Olympic Park is a playground where Olympian dreams once soared. Visitors can explore the Olympic museum or even brave some adventure rides that give a taste of the Olympian experience, including the Comet Bobsled (open year round!).

Just a 30-minute drive from Salt Lake City, it’s a glimpse into the world of elite winter sports. While walking the grounds, visiting the museum, and soaking up the Olympic atmosphere comes at no cost, some attractions such as the Comet Bobsled or Gala night do come at a price, so bring some budget for the adventure!

Take in Epic Views from Ensign Peak Nature Park

One of the hidden gems in Salt Lake City with a GREAT view, Ensign Peak Nature Park is a beautiful trail known and loved by locals. The Park offers panoramic views of the valley and city skyline below, making it perfect for both sunrise and sunset admirers. Heck, you don’t even need to hike the whole trail for a great view!

Located just north of the Capitol, it’s the ideal hike for those who want a quick escape into nature (the trail is about 1 mile long) and be rewarded with stunning views. Be sure to bring snacks and drinks for a picnic at the top!

Catch a Classical Performance at the Utah Symphony

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Found in the elegant Maurice Abravanel Hall, the Utah Symphony brings dazzling performances throughout the year that are an amazing activity in the city that not many tourists get to. With a lineup of classical masterpieces, compositions from our favorite movies, and festive holiday tunes, there’s a classical music performance for everyone’s tastes, including you!

Just a short stroll from many of the city’s main attractions, it’s a no-brainer to  check out their schedule  and grab your tickets for a lesser-known musical night out in Salt Lake.

Visit The “This is the Place Monument” Historical Site

The “This is the Place Monument” is a tall, elegant stone pillar adorned with bronze statues commemorating the Mormon pioneers and their leader, Brigham Young. Here, history was etched when Young declared Salt Lake Valley as the Mormons’ new home.

For a deeper look and experience into the settler’s history, the surrounding  heritage park  features replica settlements, historical buildings, and interactive exhibits. Just a brief drive from downtown Salt Lake City, this spot not only offers a glimpse into the foundations of the region but also a scenic view of the valley.

Delve into the Outdoors at Big Cottonwood Canyon

Escape the city’s hustle and bustle and find yourself amidst the breathtaking beauty of Big Cottonwood Canyon, a canyon carved out by ancient glaciers! This natural Salt Lake City hidden gem is a 45-minute drive from the center and offers outdoor lovers a paradise of hiking, skiing, and rock-climbing opportunities. Don’t forget to bring your gear!

The canyon is not just for adventurers, though — it’s also perfect for those looking to picnic or revel in the beauty of Utah’s outdoors. It’s a place to revel in nature’s beauty that is less crowded than some of Salt Lake’s popular spots.

Hang With Exotic Animals at the Hogle Zoo

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Get ready to embark on a global animal adventure without leaving Salt Lake City at the non-profit Hogle Zoo! From majestic African elephants to playful polar bears, this zoo houses diverse creatures from various continents and prides itself on the highest standards of care for the animals.

Just a few miles from downtown, it’s an easy day trip, and your contribution to the Zoo will support various projects on-site and off to support our globe and its species.

Hunt Down the Best Murals in Salt Lake

One of the best ways to appreciate local art anywhere is by going mural spotting. Murals tell the stories of the local culture, history, and people with their creative and grand appearances (or are simply there just for fun) — and Salt Lake City is no exception with its growing arts scene!

Check out this  article  which features a map of some of the top murals in the city, and make your mural-spotting tour easy! Discover both well-known and hidden gem murals as you explore.

Find a Salt Lake City Hidden Gem at Ken Sanders Rare Books

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Salt Lake City seems to have an appreciation for the past days before everything went digital. First, we had Randy’s Record Shop, and now we’ve got Ken Sander’s Rare Book Store , which homes a collection of antique books you’re unlikely to ever find elsewhere.

With a focus on the region, including Utah history, Mormonism, and the West, you’re bound to see a few unique titles and get a new insight into the local area’s history and perspective. Heck, this is your sign to read a physical book again!

Visit the Attractions at Temple Square and See the Tabernacle Choir

At the heart of downtown Salt Lake City is Temple Square, a nod to the city’s Mormon roots and a place to visit to go a bit deeper into the city’s religious history. Stroll amidst serene gardens, explore the majestic Joseph Smith Memorial Building, and of course, visit the Salt Lake Temple.

You can even see the  Mormon Tabernacle Choir  for free during their rehearsal and radio show times (when they aren’t touring, that is!).

Stroll Through Liberty Park

Liberty Park sprawls across 80 acres and stands as an oasis of green in the heart of Salt Lake City. With serene ponds, vibrant playgrounds, and tennis courts, this park is a favorite among locals and tourists and has plenty of secret spots where you can get away from it all.

It offers plenty of space for picnics, jogging, or relaxing under a tree. If you plan a visit to the Aviary (which we’ll cover later), then a stroll around the park is a must!

Uncover Your Roots at the Family History Library

If you’ve got some floppy disks left behind from your family, remember to bring them on your trip to Salt Lake City with you!

At the Family History Library, you’ll discover the world’s most extensive genealogical research library, where you can explore your roots, learn about mapping your family history, and even transfer data from old technology, such as floppy disks, to FamilySearch. How’s that for a hidden gem that might change your life?

Immerse Yourself in the Night Skies at the Planetarium

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The  Clark Planetarium  in downtown Salt Lake City brings a whole new take on how to enjoy a show. This show at the planetarium is full of unique experiences that bring viewers from the night skies to under the ocean.

With IMAX 3D and Dome experiences, you can catch a show that suits your interests, and regardless of which you choose, you’re bound to be immersed on this unique night time activity in Salt Lake City.

Meet the Birds at Tracy Aviary Park

Tucked away among the green expanses of Liberty Park, Tracy Aviary Park stands as one of the hidden gems in Salt Lake City for bird enthusiasts and families alike.

With over 300 birds from around the globe, some rare and on the verge of extinction, it’s a vibrant world of feathers, chirps, and colors. Apart from the delightful avian displays, you may encounter roaming birds and see an interactive demonstration.

Explore Global & Historical Arts at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts

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The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is one of those more hidden places in Salt Lake City waiting for art and history enthusiasts far and wide to visit. Situated within the University of Utah campus, the museum boasts an impressive collection featuring works from diverse cultures from different times around the globe, such as Mayan and Mesopotamian art. To get there, simply hop on a city bus or drive to the university grounds.

Tour the Utah State Capitol Building

Standing proudly on Capitol Hill, the Utah State Capitol Building has numerous experiences to offer, from tours of the building to picnics on the lawn. Many people view this building when visiting SLC, but not many people take the tine to look inside. And it’s worth it!

Within its grandiose halls, you’ll find stunning architecture and historic murals that narrate the state’s storied past. If you come during spring, the grounds are a must-visit, as during late March or early April, the Cherry Blossoms will be in full swing! Best of all, entrance is free, allowing you to immerse yourself without a cost.

Immerse Yourself in Salt Lake City History at Hidden Gem Place Heritage Park

Step back in time at Place Heritage Park, where the rich tapestry of Utah’s history is unraveled. From Native American life to early pioneers, this park displays the region’s changes and story over time with a beautiful backdrop too.

Visitors can explore reconstructed buildings, engage with living history demonstrations, and even try their hand at gold panning! A visit here is a truly fun and immersive way to experience Utah’s history, so if you have kids (or are just a kid at heart), add this park to your list!

Enjoy your visit and let us know which Salt Lake City hidden Gems we missed! Check these out for further travel:

• Unique Places to Stay in Moab Utah

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• 7 Cozy Towns to Visit in Utah

A key component of the Western United States, the “Beehive State” of Utah is a splendid cultural and geographical place. With a rich history containing stories of indigenous peoples, the settlement of the West, and Mormon pioneers, Utah’s unique historical background is only rivaled by its beautiful mountainous landscapes and desert plateaus. A great destination to spend a vacation, Utah’s welcoming, smaller, and cozy towns are awesome places to get better acquainted with the state and its most special character.

So whether one is looking for a unique cultural experience or a majestic natural panorama, Utah and its towns are just the right places to discover firsthand. Hit the road and come see the most wonderful place, which is the “Beehive State”!

Spring City

Formally established in the 1850s, Spring City, like many towns in Utah, was founded by Mormon pioneers, and its unique cultural heritage continues to be evident for all those who visit. Home to a modest population of just over 1,000 inhabitants, this historic community is a great place to immerse oneself in the 19th century, and in fact, the town in its entirety is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visit the Historic District and marvel at landmarks like the Spring City Chapel and Schoolhouse (1899), amongst others that display a special style of architecture that includes the use of large stones. Add in a cute assortment of local businesses and restaurants, and Spring City truly is a nice and cozy place to spend a day or weekend trip. By mixing the elements of small-town USA with a most special Mormon cultural character, Spring City is one of the finest places to discover on any Utah road trip.

A beautifully scenic place, the town of Moab offers its guests and residents alike some of the best in desert landscapes. The seat of Grand County, home to a population of just over 5,000 inhabitants, Moab can trace its modern history to the 1870s when it was settled by Mormon pioneers. For those looking for dramatic and breathtaking vistas and chances to spend time in a desert ambiance, then Moab is the place to be. Visit the famed Arches and Canyonlands National Park , where such structures as mesas, canyons, and buttes can be admired in all their splendor. Meanwhile, the athletically minded tourist can even go mountain biking and hiking at the nearby Slickrock Trails, where one can totally immerse oneself in this raw desert setting.

Meanwhile, Moab hosts a number of inviting cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, folk festivals, and LGBT pride parades. Add in hot weather, a charming array of local businesses, and unique Mormon-style buildings, and Moab truly is a destination that anyone visiting Utah cannot miss.

Kanab, the seat of Kane County, is located very near the northern border with Arizona. Kanab is another desert wonderland that those traveling in Southern Utah will not want to pass by. Affectionately known as “Utah’s Little Hollywood”, over the decades many films and television shows set in the Wild West have been filmed in the Kanab area, particularly in the 50s and 60s. A veritably hot summer destination, this charming community of just under 4,700 residents offers some of the best in desert landscapes, and guests can enjoy easy access to such sites as the Coral Spring Sand Dunes, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Zion National Park.

Take advantage of fun opportunities to go biking and hiking and explore some of the region’s most spectacular canyons, valleys, and other rock formations. Finally, in the town itself, a welcoming assortment of friendly restaurants, shops, and other businesses dot the landscape, while charming accommodations like the Parry Lodge (1930) make Kanab fit for all ages.

Mount Pleasant

The town of Mount Pleasant was established by the Mormons in the 1860s, and today, it is the home of just over 3,600 residents. A charming and old-fashioned place, guests can really get a sense of the 19th century here and admire its historic Mormon-style architecture. Spend an afternoon on Main Street and admire landmarks like the Blacksmith Shop and the Wasatch Academy School Museum while a cute assortment of shops, restaurants, and other historic sites fill in the surroundings.

Just a 90-minute drive from Salt Lake City, Mount Pleasant is a nice place for a weekend getaway where the best of Mormon history and small-town charm come together nicely. Add in several annual cultural events, including Fourth of July Celebrations and the summer Hub City Days Rodeo, and the young and old can truly have a memorable experience in this lovely and cozy Utah town.

Panguitch serves as the seat of Garfield County and derives its name from an indigenous word meaning “Big Fish.” Established by Mormon settlers in the 1860s, today, the town maintains a very modest population of just over 1,700 inhabitants. Scenically located within the Sevier River Valley, where splendid mountain and lake vistas abound, Panguitch is a wonderful place for outdoors lovers to visit. Well known as an angler’s hot spot, those who love to fish can find healthy populations of rainbow trout and other species in the lakes and rivers in the surrounding area.

In addition, even history aficionados can appreciate Panguitch, and an exploration of the town’s Historic District brings tourists back to the tumultuous years of the 1800s. Marvel at numerous Mormon-style buildings in a neighborhood that was added in its entirety to the National Register of Historic Places! And like many small towns, Panguitch offers a charming, friendly atmosphere where local businesses, shops, and restaurants are ready to greet all those who visit.

As with many towns in Utah, Farmington can trace its modern history to the mid-19th century when it was founded by the Mormons. Today, this seat of Davis County is home to nearly 25,000 inhabitants, and visitors can enjoy a unique cultural setting within the beautiful natural framing of northern Utah. Known for its hot summer and cool winter temperatures, Farmington is surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake, where outdoor activities in all seasons are always popular.

Enjoy swimming, hiking, and cycling in the most scenic ambiance. Meanwhile, the town’s Mormon heritage is most evident through its assortment of buildings and landmarks reflecting an architectural style of the 1800s. And for the whole family, do not forget to visit the truly entertaining Lagoon Amusement Park, which was first opened back in 1886! Whether it's enjoying the outdoors, marveling at the historic town center, or riding a roller coaster, Farmington is one Utah community that people of all backgrounds can truly appreciate.

Brigham City

Brigham City was named for the prominent Mormon religious leader Brigham Young and was formally established in the 1850s. Today, the home of a population of nearly 20,000 inhabitants, this seat of Box Elder County remains a splendid place to enjoy a cozy and scenic Utah getaway. Situated within the picturesque Westville Mountains, this historic town boasts beautiful green spaces, mountain vistas, and loads of spectacular Mormon architecture, making it one of the most photogenic places in the State. Spending time on Main Street and admiring the buildings while having an afternoon at the Golden Spike National Historical Park is a great way to learn more about the famed Transcontinental Railroad that was completed in 1869. And with an array of year-round festivals held, there is always something exciting happening in Brigham City.

Of particular note is the Peach Days Festival in September. The town which is known for its production of sweet and succulent preaches, goes all out for this festival and guests can enjoy parades, live music, carnival acts, and naturally plenty of opportunities to indulge in this most wonderful fruit!

Whether it is its natural geographic beauty or splendid cultural uniqueness, the “Beehive State” of Utah continues to be one of America’s most alluring destinations. An exploration of the State and its cozy, smaller towns make for great holiday memories. Outside of such major urban centers like Provo and Salt Lake City, Utah’s smaller communities are also great reflections of the great diversity to be found in the Western United States. From the desert wonder of Moab and Kanab to the cultural wonder of Brigham City and Mount Pleasant, these and other wonderfully inviting Utah towns are the perfect destinations to experience a special version of the typical small-town USA. Do not wait then and begin planning a most special holiday getaway in this gem of a place called Utah, where the richest experience awaits all ages of travelers.

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Discover the best things to do in Salt Lake City

By Sage Scott

| Updated: May 23, 2024

Nestled between the Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake City offers an irresistible blend of natural wonders, rich history and mouthwatering delights. So pack your bags, lace up your shoes and let’s review some of the best things to do in Salt Lake City.

Outdoor adventures in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From vast lakes to rugged trails, there’s something to satisfy every nature lover’s cravings. Whether you’re seeking serene landscapes or thrilling encounters with wildlife, you’ll find it all here.

Skiing in Salt Lake City

As you might expect from a city that hosted the Winter Olympics, Salt Lake City is home to several world-class ski resorts. Winter temperatures hover around freezing, and Salt Lake City’s mountains receive nearly one foot of perfect powder every five days, ensuring that hitting the slopes is one of the best things to do in Salt Lake City in winter. Even more exciting is that you can land at Salt Lake City International Airport and get on the slopes at one of four resorts within an hour of arrival.

Great Salt Lake

Just west of downtown, the Great Salt Lake is a must-see. It’s the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, and due to its high salinity, swimming here is more of a floating experience. For a unique perspective, consider a guided tour, which often includes transportation from the city​​.

Antelope Island

Accessible via a causeway, Antelope Island offers nearly 20 miles of trails with stunning views of the lake and the Wasatch Mountains. It’s also home to one of the oldest and largest publicly owned bison herds in the U.S., along with other wildlife like pronghorn antelope​​.

Red Butte Garden

Located at the University of Utah, Red Butte Garden spans 100 acres and features over 20 acres of developed gardens. With five miles of hiking trails, it’s perfect for a relaxing stroll or a vigorous hike. The garden is especially stunning from May to September when everything is in full bloom ​​.

“Red Butte Garden is a must-visit spot for nature lovers! It’s got tons of amazing plants and water features, and the volunteer guides are so friendly and knowledgeable.”  — Tory Mather, My Trails are Many

Urban attractions

Salt Lake City’s urban attractions offer a mix of history, culture and architectural beauty. From the iconic Temple Square to the bustling city library, there’s plenty to explore without venturing very far from the city center.

“City Creek Mall is right across the street from Temple Square. You can catch a movie and then walk over to the food court for a bite to eat.” — Micah, Home Faith Family

Temple Square

No visit to Salt Lake City is complete without exploring Temple Square. After all, with more than five million visitors a year, it is the most popular destination in Utah, attracting approximately two times more visitors than Utah’s most popular national park . The 10-acre complex is located in the heart of the city, featuring stunning architecture and serene gardens. Free tours are available, offering insights into the area’s history and significance​​.

Utah State Capitol

The Utah State Capitol provides fantastic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Free guided tours are available hourly, giving you a deeper understanding of the state’s history and government​​.

Salt Lake City offers a variety of family-friendly attractions that will keep both kids and adults entertained. From interactive zoos to captivating aviaries, there are plenty of activities to ensure a fun-filled family day out.

Spanning 40 acres, Hogle Zoo is an excellent destination for families. You can see African lions basking in the sun, elephants taking dust baths and you can even feed giraffes. Seasonal events like BooLights! and ZooLights! add extra fun during the fall and winter​​.

Tracy Aviary

Bird enthusiasts will enjoy Tracy Aviary, the oldest aviary in the U.S. and home to over 100 species. It’s open year-round except on major holidays. The aviary offers educational programs and interactive exhibits perfect for visitors of all ages​​.

Dining in Salt Lake City

Because I spend approximately six weeks a year in Utah’s largest city, I’ve had the opportunity to try a lot of coffee shops, bakeries, bistros, cafes and restaurants in Salt Lake City. You won’t want to miss these eateries when you visit this beautiful high-desert destination.

Eva’s Bakery

Just a short walk from Temple Square, Eva’s Bakery stands out with its French-inspired blue facade. Enjoy a continental breakfast with a flaky croissant and hot coffee, or indulge in a breakfast sandwich on a buttery croissant filled with ham, scrambled eggs, Gruyere cheese and tomato. The roasted golden beet salad and croque sandwiches are top picks​​ for lunch.

Bruges Belgian Bistro

After years of living in Europe and searching for Belgian-style frites in the U.S., I can confidently say Bruges Belgian Bistro offers some of the best fries on this side of the Atlantic. Their fluffy yet crispy fries come with a variety of dipping sauces like mayo and aioli. Pair them with a Belgian-style lamb sausage or a Liege waffle topped with delicious options like bananas and Nutella​​.

Provisions is a cozy neighborhood eatery that focuses on locally sourced, organic and sustainable ingredients. Their menu changes regularly, but every dish is delicious. I recommend ordering two to three items from their small plates or one small plate and one large plate, and be sure to save room for dessert.

Franck’s

For an upscale dining experience, head to Franck’s. Nestled in a renovated brick home in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains, a dinner here is one of my favorite things to do in Salt Lake City. The avant-garde French-American bistro offers a seasonally inspired menu. If the crispy Brussels sprouts are on the menu, don’t miss them. Another favorite is Franck’s meatloaf, a delightful blend of whipped potatoes and blueberry-lavender sauce topped with crispy onions​​.

Red Iguana is renowned for its mole and margaritas . Start with the mole sampler to try all six sauces, then dive into your favorite mole with chicken, turkey or carnitas. Their signature margaritas, like the tamarindo with a chile rim, are also a must-try. Be aware of Utah’s unique liquor laws to avoid any surprises during your visit​​.

Gourmandise

Gourmandise is known for its European-inspired desserts. Their white chantilly strawberry cake and strawberry mille-feuille are crowd favorites. The bakery also offers a variety of croissants and other pastries that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Salt Lake City sendoff

Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a culture buff or a foodie who’s ready to eat your way through town, Salt Lake City has so much to offer. So pack your bags and get ready to work your way through the best things to do in Salt Lake City.

Sage Scott was bitten by the travel bug as a preschooler when her family moved abroad for the first time. Now settled in America’s Heartland, Sage is a travel writer, world wanderer and photographer whose favorite color is golden hour. Follow her adventures at Everyday Wanderer .

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Salt Lake bustles with activity in the summer. While nearby mountains are ablaze with high-altitude natural wonders, the city comes alive with sports, festivals, parades, farmer’s markets, outdoor concerts, and lively restaurant patios. 

Families, in particular, revel in Salt Lake’s outdoorsy-meets-urbanite lifestyle. With the city’s unparalleled access to nature, parents with busy-bee toddlers or tough-to-please teens get the best of two worlds—experiencing it themselves and, as a bonus, experiencing it through the eyes of a child. The cherry on top? Less time in the car equals more time for connecting. 

Even better are the money-saving experience passes that abound for families exploring Salt Lake. Customize your outings with guided tours and discount passes to Salt Lake's most popular places. With just a few clicks, parents ensure quick access and wallet-friendly prices to the best activities. 

During the school break, why not build a new set of emotional and intellectual benchmarks? How exactly? Well, here are some family-friendly activities only Salt Lake offers that’ll do just that.

1. Hike or Mountain Bike Minutes from Downtown

Look out any downtown hotel window and you’ll see foothills and mountains cocooning the Salt Lake Valley. Those northern foothills host the Bonneville Shoreline Trail , which is easily accessed from Memory Grove Park —a mere mile from the city’s center—and City Creek Canyon. Local trail runners, dog walkers, hikers, and mountain biking enthusiasts revere the City Creek Trail and the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, and you will, too. Families also adore the Ensign Peak Trail for its short distance and epic valley views.   

2. Eat With the Locals at a Downtown Restaurant or Brewery

‘Tis the season when hungry diners flock to outdoor patios . With so many family-friendly, locally owned restaurants in Salt Lake, it’s easy to find a spot to feed those hungry tummies. Find a trendy new hot spot , nearby coffee shop ,   food truck or brewery .

3. Explore a Campus of Curiosity — 5 Experiences in a 6-Mile Radius

Consider it summer camp for kids and parents. A short drive or Trax light rail ride from downtown leads you to the city’s eastern foothills, where you can explore Utah wildlife, botany, geography, art, and pioneer heritage. The Salt Lake Downtown Discovery Pass and the Salt Lake Connect Attractions Pass offer discounts for these experiences.

This is the Place Heritage Park lets kids pan for gold, ride ponies, ride a train, tour the Native American Village, cool off at the Irrigation Station and meet leatherworkers, woodworkers and blacksmiths while they work.

Sitting just across the street, Utah’s Hogle Zoo is an easy walk from the This is the Place. Let the kids run along the paths—while you enjoy a leisurely stroll—from the African Savanna to the Rhino Encounter to Rocky Shores (hello, polar bears!) or the Asian Highlands.

The Intermountain West’s largest botanical garden, Red Butte Gardens , shows off plant collections and themed gardens. The garden also hosts a summer camp series and a world-class concert summer concert series.  

Next door to Red Butte, find the Natural History Museum of Utah at the Rio Tinto Center. It houses 163,000 square feet of breathtaking exhibitions—think fossils, life-size dinosaur skeletons and interactive traveling exhibits—inside a LEED Gold-certified architectural achievement. 

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts at the University of Utah hosts a collection of contemporary art and ancient objects, as well as traveling exhibitions, panel discussions, art-making classes and a retail boutique. 

4. Experience the Utah Olympics Legacy

Salt Lake is one of the few Olympic cities worldwide that continues to operate year-round. Since we hosted the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, the park has been open for Olympic hopefuls to train for ski jumping, bobsledding, skeleton, freestyle, curling and speed skating competitions. It’s open to the public, too. Visit the Utah Olympic Oval in Kearns or the Utah Olympic Park in Park City . 

Heading to Park City? Buy a Salt Lake Connect Attractions Pass and be sure to catch the ever-popular Flying Ace All-Stars Freestyle Show, where freestyle skiers flip and trick high in the air before landing in a massive pool.  

5. Take Your Pick of 4 Nearby Mountain Resorts

You may have heard of them: Alta, Snowbird, Brighton and Solitude. Yes, they’re famous for their skiing, but in the summer, each resort transforms into a summer wonderland of chairlift rides, hiking, mountain biking, live music, food festivals, disc golf and more. You can reach the mouths of Little Cottonwood Canyon and Big Cottonwood Canyon in just under 20 minutes from downtown.   

6. Get Tickets to a Game…And a Rodeo

Salt Lake has a unique lineup of summer pro sports. Take to the pitch and cheer on Real Salt Lake, Real Monarchs or Utah Royals FC . Sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” at a Salt Lake Bees game. Hit up a rodeo, hear the rumble of Utah Motorsports , or feel the rugby rush while cheering on the Utah Warriors .  

7. Visit the Closest-to-a-City International Dark Sky Park

Whether you consider your family astro-tourists or not, everyone can feel the magical sensation of seeing so many stars in the night sky. Antelope Island State Park got its Dark Sky certification in recent years and ever since, families can start the day with a Great Salt Lake tour and finish it with nature’s own firework show: a vast black sky filled with gleaming stars. 

Only interested in a daytime excursion? The Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island 1-Day Tour shuttles guests to and from their hotel and gives insightful details about the area's unique wildlife and ecology.   

8. Enjoy a Salt Lake-Only Summer Festival

No doubt, it’s festival season here in Salt Lake, and, lucky for parents, they’re all family-friendly and oh, so fun. Fan-favorite events include Pioneer Day and The Days of ‘47 Parade , Utah Pride Festival and Parade , and Utah Arts Festival . 

While our annual events are always celebration-worthy, the tiny-but-mighty events—community events, cultural celebrations, book signings, art openings, comedy tours and live music—showcase the diversity of Salt Lake arts and culture. Throw your vacation dates into this handy events page and voila, you’ll find a treasure trove of happenings.  

9. Share an Outdoor Concert, Musical or Play With the Family

Salt Lake summer evenings are lovely, especially when sitting under the stars and taking in a live performance. Live performances come alive at Red Butte Garden , Utah First Credit Union Amphitheater, Sandy City Amphitheater and Draper Amphitheater.   

FRIENDLY EDITOR’S NOTE: It may go without saying, but we love our visitors to get back to their hotels safe and happy. Salt Lake City temperatures climb past 90 in July and August. Whatever mode of adventure you choose in our foothills, (1) plan out your route ahead of time and (2) pack plenty of water and sun protection.  

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What to do in Utah this Memorial Day weekend

1 or more of these options could be the perfect way to celebrate the holiday.

By Caroline McDonald

This Memorial Day weekend promises warm weather and sunshine in Utah.

Whether you’re traveling or staying in town, there are a variety of local activities to choose from as you celebrate the holiday — plus some ways to avoid heavy crowds.

Activities for Memorial Day weekend

• Dinner downtown . Downtown Provo and downtown Salt Lake City have an array of restaurants to choose from. Or, consider a short drive to another nearby city.
• Utah’s Hogle Zoo . Hogle Zoo , located in Salt Lake City, has several exhibits featuring a variety of animals.
• Thanksgiving Point . Thanksgiving Point hosts many events, museums and gardens.
• Timpanogos Cave . Timpanogos Cave is a fun way to get outdoors and explore “geologic mysteries.”
• Hill Aerospace Museum . The Hill Aerospace Museum provides a great opportunity to appreciate Air Force artifacts without charge.
• Utah Memorial Day Ceremony . The ceremony is held at Utah’s Capitol Building in Salt Lake City. According to the Utah Department of Veterans and Military affairs , “The event will feature remarks from Governor Spencer J. Cox and U.S. Representative Celeste Maloy, along with a special musical performance and a 21-gun salute by the Utah National Guard.”
• Utah Veterans Cemetery & Memorial Park . The park “offers a beautiful panoramic view of the Wasatch Mountains and pays tribute as an honored burial ground to Veterans, their spouses, and dependent children.”
• 2024 Run of Remembrance . This race will be held on Memorial Day with opportunities to run a mile, a 5K and a 10K. Registration is required.
• Memory Grove . The park — located in Salt Lake City — is a memorial to those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
• Memorial Day Boot Display . This event is open to the public and features a silent auction, opportunity drawing and boot display.
• Local Memorial Day programs . Many cities in Utah have breakfasts, parades, community events and more. Look up information on what is happening in your hometown.
• Zion National Park . If you’re hoping to get outdoors, hiking in Zion National Park could be a great option.
• Provo Memorial Day Service . The event will be held at the Provo City Cemetery on Monday in honor of those who served in our nation’s Armed Forces.

How can I avoid crowds?

Holidays often bring crowds. Here are some options that are likely to be less crowded.

• A hike near you . If Zion National Park is too crowded for you, try a hike from this list , provided by Visit Utah.
• Barbecue . Some communities host barbecues for the whole neighborhood. If that’s not your style, have your own barbecue with a small group of friends and family.
• Picnic in the park . This weekend will be a great time to pack a basket of food and enjoy the weather outdoors.
• Camping . Utah has a variety of campgrounds. Find a list of them here .
• Go to the movies . While there might be a few crowds hitting the theaters, at least you can pick your own seats. Several family-friendly movies are in theaters right now, including “IF,” “The Garfield Movie” and “Migration.”

Here's where Salt Lake City ranks in latest 'Best Places to Live' report

SALT LAKE CITY — Although the same outlet awarded Utah as the best state in the country earlier this month, the U.S. News & World Report apparently does not have the same high praise for its capital city.

In fact, Salt Lake City was ranked below dozens of cities from across the Midwest, the South, and even... BOISE, IDAHO.

In the list of 150 major American cities, Salt Lake was placed at #33 in the 2024-2025 rankings.

How could that be, when it's the biggest city in the USN's very own appointed #1 state?

SLC received a 6.5 out of 10 overall score, with the rankings taking into account quality of life, value or affordability of the city, desirability and the job market index.

In the quality of life category, Salt Lake City received a score of 6.4. In the value category, the city got a 6.8

The report highlighted Utah's cost of living, which is slightly lower than comparable cities. However, Utah's housing market is tough to crack as prices are higher than the national median, the report indicates.

State rankings, released earlier this month, analyzed slightly different criteria, looking at natural environment, fiscal stability, education, infrastructure, health care, economy, opportunity and crime and corrections.

Though SLC isn't topping the list, it is an improvement from last year's rankings, when the city placed 58 overall. Still, it's not the highest SLC has ever ranked, landing at No. 23 in 2021 and 2022.

This year, Naples, Florida was ranked as the best place to live with an overall score of 7.1. Boise was right behind, taking the silver medal and placing second with a score of 7.0

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Opinion: Salt Lake City can make up for past Japantown injustices — but only if they involve our community

Will those in power see japantown as the cultural and economic asset so many residents support and are in favor of or will they repeat the mistakes past leadership has made.

(The Salt Lake Tribune) An undated photograph of a couple in Japantown in Salt Lake City.

Japantown (100 S. between 200 W. and 300 W.) was part of the heart of Salt Lake City. Before its forced decline in the late 1960′s, Japantown stretched from South Temple to 400 South and from State Street to 700 West. As today’s community leaders consider revitalization plans for the downtown area surrounding the Delta Center, it is important for us to take a moment to consider what this means for the communities who utilize this space right now.

The Sports, Entertainment, Culture and Convention District (SECC), which has been proposed by the city and Smith Entertainment Group (SEG), has the power to change the city. As Utah embarks on this new journey, we remain cautiously optimistic about Salt Lake City’s future and the role Japantown will play in it. It is up to us as the taxpayers to ensure we move forward as the diverse community we are and to not repeat failures of the past.

The Japanese American community has been integral to Utah’s economic growth since the end of the 19th century, when the first immigrants arrived to build infrastructure for the agriculture, railroad and mining industries in Utah. After the injustices Japanese Americans faced during WWII, including their experience in internment camps, many families chose Salt Lake City’s Japantown as their refuge.

Unfortunately, during the height of Japantown in 1965, the Salt Palace was constructed and what was once a thriving, diverse city center became unwelcoming. The Palace split downtown by closing 100 South between West Temple and 200 West. Businesses had no choice but to either close their doors or relocate. The only remnants of the once sprawling Japantown are the Salt Lake Buddhist Temple, Japanese Church of Christ and Japan-Sage Market (now on S. Main Street). Since its original construction, the Salt Palace Convention Center has grown in size, cutting away more pieces of Japantown and eroding the cultural fabric of our city.

In 2020, the Japanese Community Preservation Committee (JCPC) spoke out in opposition to the West Quarter development plans to ensure Japantown Street did not become the backside to loading docks of yet another development. The JCPC was created in the early 2000s with the goal of preserving and restoring historic Japantown. In partnership with the Salt Lake City Redevelopment Agency, they received approval for a streetscape beautification plan to add Japanese landscaping and artwork to 100 South. There have been recent conversations acknowledging the streetscape funding, however construction has yet to begin. With the downtown revitalization effort proposed by the city and SEG moving so quickly, we are equally hopeful and concerned about the completion and follow through on the Japantown Streetscape and the future of Japantown.

Despite its diminished size, Japantown remains a cultural and economic asset to downtown. The festivals we host are a display of our cultural heritage and bring together people from across the state, not just from our own community. The Salt Lake Buddhist Temple and Japanese Church of Christ continually host food bazaars, workshops, exhibits, art displays and more. Despite our community’s concerns, we believe this revitalization effort is an opportunity for the city, county and SEG to make up for past injustices and acknowledge Japantown as a critical stakeholder in downtown’s future.

To address the past while also looking toward a brighter future, our community asks for the following items to be addressed:

Implement the 100 South Japantown Streetscape and landscaping plan;

Preserve the Japanese Church of Christ, the Salt Lake Buddhist Temple and the Japanese Garden as physical assets;

Preserve the ability to hold religious services, gatherings and festivals;

Preserve and develop additional parking for both the Japanese Church of Christ and the Salt Lake Buddhist Temple;

Promote street facing, compatible business development with Japanese cultural design;

Promote historic signage and wayfinding to Japantown; and

Involve Japanese American community in SECC planning.

This is our capital city’s opportunity to shift the way big development responds to marginalized communities. Japantown has repeatedly been impacted by development projects which either lacked consideration for or outright opposed the goals of our community.

Will those in power see Japantown as the cultural and economic asset so many residents support and are in favor of? Or will they repeat the mistakes past leadership have made?

Thus far, we are encouraged by the support from local leaders and hope this bodes well for a brighter future for Japantown. This is a historic opportunity to expand an ethnic enclave to once again become a thriving cultural district.

History has repeatedly shown officials and leaders only respond to those who make their voices heard, so please amplify our voices and sign the petition at www.slcjapantown.com to support our community. As negotiations are ongoing, the Japanese American community will not sit idly as echoes of our past become resoundingly louder. We will continue to honor our past to forge a foundation of future visibility in downtown’s cityscape.

(Photo courtesy of Alex Hirai) Alex Hirai

Alex Hirai was born and raised in Salt Lake City. From a young age, Alex was taught the importance of history and how it affects the present. After attending East High School in Salt Lake City, he graduated with a degree in ethnic studies, as well as a minor in history and political science from the University of Utah. He has a passion for advancing the struggle of the working class and ensuring justice for all Americans.

(Photo courtesy of Clarysa Park) Clarysa Park

Clarysa Park grew up in Layton and recently moved back from Los Angeles. She has a husband and two (almost three!) young boys and is dedicated to making Salt Lake City a place which celebrates diversity and inclusion for future generations. She started the petition and SLC Japantown.

Both Clarysa and Alex are members of SLC NextGen JA , a community group dedicated to protecting, preserving and promoting the SLC Japantown community and history by connecting generations and various organizations within the Japanese American community.

The Salt Lake Tribune is committed to creating a space where Utahns can share ideas, perspectives and solutions that move our state forward. We rely on your insight to do this. Find out how to share your opinion here , and email us at [email protected] .

Donate to the newsroom now. The Salt Lake Tribune, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity and contributions are tax deductible

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